The term 'USE SHEARS' refers to the use of a tool for cutting or trimming. The four crossword solutions SNIP, CUT, LOP, and CLIP all refer to the action of using shears. SNIP is a verb meaning to CUT something off with scissors or shears. CUT is also a verb meaning to make an opening, incision, or separation with a sharp instrument. LOP is a verb meaning to CUT off or remove something, usually branches from a tree. CLIP is a verb meaning to CUT off or trim with shears or scissors. All of these terms refer to the same action of using shears to CUT or trim something.