English idiom · neutral · spoken & written · BrE & AmE

cut corners: meaning and examples

cut corners means do something cheaply or quickly by ignoring proper standards.

Memory hook: Build a clear mental picture from “cut corners” and connect it to this meaning: do something cheaply or quickly by ignoring proper standards.

How to use “cut corners”

Common mistake: Treat “cut corners” as a fixed expression. Notice its exact word order in the examples.

Learn it in context

This expression belongs to Lesson 6, where you can compare it with other idioms about productivity and practise it interactively.

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