Here's why:

* Raised, level area: Mesas are flat-topped landforms that stand higher than the surrounding terrain.

* Cut by a steep canyon: The erosion of canyons often forms around mesas, creating dramatic cliffs and steep slopes.

Other possible answers could include:

* Plateau: A plateau is a large, flat area of land elevated above the surrounding terrain. They can be larger than mesas and may not always have canyons cutting through them.

* Butte: A butte is similar to a mesa but smaller and more isolated. It can also have canyons cutting through it.

Let me know if you have more information about the specific features of this landform!