English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Cut corners
Meaning
The idiom "cut corners" means to take shortcuts, usually by sacrificing quality or skipping necessary steps in order to save time or effort. This can also refer to taking a cheaper or less expensive option, even if it may not be the best choice.
Usage
- The company cut corners on safety measures to save money, putting their employees at risk.
- She decided to cut corners and skip her workout, but regretted it later when she couldn't complete her task.
- When faced with a difficult decision, many people choose to cut corners rather than make the tough choice.
- The new chef at the restaurant cut corners on ingredients, leading to negative reviews from customers.
- When building a house, some contractors cut corners to save time and money, but this can lead to problems down the line.
Roots and History
The idiom "cut corners" dates back to the mid-19th century in English literature. It was first used by Charles Dickens in his novel "A Christmas Carol," where Scrooge is described as cutting corners to save money for himself instead of investing in his employees. Over time, the idiom has come to refer to any action that sacrifices quality or skips necessary steps in order to achieve a quicker or cheaper result.
Synonyms in English
- Take shortcuts
- Cut corners
- Skip necessary steps
- Sacrifice quality
- Take the easy way out
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "couper des coins" (to cut corners)
- German: "einen Kurs kürzen" (to shorten a course)
- Spanish: "cortar esquinas" (to cut corners)
- Italian: "tagliare le angoli" (to cut corners)
- Japanese: "短縮する" (to shorten)