Definition

Verb phrase: - To do something in the easiest, fastest, or cheapest way, often by omitting important steps, using inferior materials, or ignoring rules and standards, which typically results in lower quality or potential problems.

Usage

This phrase is used to describe a method of working that prioritizes speed or cost savings over proper procedure, thoroughness, or quality. It implies a deliberate choice to skip necessary actions.

Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • The builder cut corners by using cheaper materials, and now the roof is leaking.
  • If you cut corners on your research, your final paper will not be strong.
  • The company was fined for cutting corners on safety inspections.

Advanced Usage

• "to be tempted to cut corners": to feel an urge to save time or money by using inferior methods.
  • When the deadline is tight, it's tempting to cut corners, but it's not worth the risk.
• "cutting corners leads to...": used to state the negative consequence of this practice.
  • Cutting corners on maintenance always leads to bigger expenses later.

Variants and Related Words

• Corner-cutting (noun/adj): The act or practice of cutting corners.
  • The investigation revealed a culture of corner-cutting in the department.

Synonyms

• Skimp: To use less of something than is necessary, especially to save money.
• Scrimp: To be very careful with money, often to the point of not spending enough on what is needed.
• Take shortcuts: To find a quicker or easier way to do something, often bypassing proper procedure.

Related Idioms

• Penny wise and pound foolish: Being careful about small amounts of money but wasteful with large sums, often as a result of cutting corners. This idiom describes the flawed logic behind cutting corners.
  • Skipping regular oil changes to save money is penny wise and pound foolish; you'll ruin the engine.

Verb

1. do something the cheapest or easiest way
   • Cut corners to make a cheaper product