Cutting Corners Idiom Meaning, with Example

The idiom “cutting corners” typically refers to taking shortcuts or finding ways to do something more quickly or easily, often by neglecting rules, standards, or proper procedures. It implies a disregard for quality, thoroughness, or the correct way of doing things in order to save time, effort, or resources.

Cutting corners can be seen as an attempt to achieve a desired outcome without putting in the necessary effort or adhering to established guidelines.

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Usage with Examples

The idiom “cutting corners” refers to taking shortcuts or finding ways to do something more quickly or easily, often at the expense of quality or thoroughness. Here are a few examples of the idiom in use:

1. He was trying to finish the project ahead of schedule, so he started cutting corners and ended up with a low result.
2. The company wanted to save money on production costs, so they started cutting corners in the manufacturing process.
3. She was running late for the meeting and decided to cut corners by skipping her breafast.
4. The contractor was under a tight deadline and tried to cut corners by using cheap materials.

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Synonyms and Similar Words To Cutting Corners

Here are some synonyms for the idiom “cutting corners”:

• Taking shortcuts
• Skimping
• Saving time/money/effort by cheating
• Finding an easier way out
• Doing the bare minimum

Cutting Corners Quiz

The athlete was desperate to improve his performance, so he started cutting corners by:

• Taking performance-enhancing drugs.
• Practising extra hours on the field.
• Calling his coach for effective tips for improvement.
• Answer: cutting corners by taking performance-enhancing drugs

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This was all about cutting corners idiom meaning with examples. Hope you understood the concept where it’s used. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.