The phrase "shaved off" is commonly used to describe the act of reducing or removing something in a precise and careful manner. If you are looking for alternative words to use as synonyms, there are several options available. Among the most commonly used synonyms are terms like "trimmed," "cut back," "pruned," "curtailed," "whittled down," or "pared down." These words convey a sense of careful and deliberate action, highlighting the intentionality behind the cut. Alternatively, you might use synonyms like "chopped," "hacked," "sliced," or "sheared" to convey a more forceful and abrupt action, indicating that the cut was made quickly and without much care for the details.