IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary
cut corners
idiom/kʌt ˈkɔːnəz/Band 8
Last updated 21 July 2026
In short
“cut corners” is a Band 8 idiom that means to do something in the cheapest or easiest way, often sacrificing quality. Below you'll find its pronunciation, natural example sentences, synonyms and antonyms, and the collocations that help you use it accurately in the IELTS Speaking test.
Meaning
To do something in the cheapest or easiest way, often sacrificing quality.
Example sentences
Natural, spoken examples at the level an examiner rewards.
- “They cut corners on safety to save money.”
- “You can't cut corners with customer service.”
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms
take shortcutsskimp
Antonyms
do things properly
Collocations & common phrases
Word partners that make your usage sound natural — the difference between knowing a word and using it well.
Collocations
cut corners onno cutting corners
Common phrases
cut corners
Related idioms
cut corners
Related words
Explore more vocabulary
Frequently asked questions
What does “cut corners” mean?
To do something in the cheapest or easiest way, often sacrificing quality.
How do you use “cut corners” in a sentence?
For example: “They cut corners on safety to save money.”
What are some synonyms for “cut corners”?
Synonyms include take shortcuts, skimp.
Is “cut corners” good vocabulary for IELTS Speaking?
Yes. It is Band 8 vocabulary, and collocations such as cut corners on, no cutting corners help you use it naturally. Reaching for precise, less common words like this is exactly what lifts your Lexical Resource score.
Next step
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