cut corners

    idiomBand 8informal

    UKkʌt ˈkɔːnəz
    USkʌt ˈkɔːrnərz

    To do something in the cheapest or easiest way, often sacrificing quality.

    A muddy shortcut path worn diagonally across the corner of a neat lawn, cutting off the paved path around it
    A path worn across the corner to save time: to cut corners is to do something the quick, cheap way.

    They cut corners on safety to save money.

    You can't cut corners with customer service.

    Remember it

    Imagine cutting across a corner to save distance: cutting corners saves effort but may reduce quality.

    Goes with

    Words that go with cut corners: cut corners on; no cutting corners; cut corners.

    Similar and opposite

    Similar
    take shortcutsskimp
    Opposite
    do things properly

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