cut corners

Idioms  

1. Do something in the easiest or least expensive way; also, act illegally. For example, Cutting corners in production led to a definite loss in product quality, or If the accountant cuts corners the auditors are sure to find out. This term alludes to rounding a corner as closely as possible in order to shorten the distance traversed and/or save time. [Late 1800s]

---

Example Sentences

Some argue a headlong commercial race will inevitably incentivize companies to cut corners on safety.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

But those cases all involved human decisions -- executives, salespeople or engineers who made choices and cut corners.

From Barron's • May 11, 2026

When deadlines and bills are circling you, the temptation to cut corners is extremely powerful.

From Slate • Mar. 28, 2026

Caviar and truffle prices are skyrocketing, forcing Tirel to cut corners while clinging to his restaurant’s former glory.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

The demand for new garments has slowed, and people have taken to mending their own clothes— it’s one place they can easily cut corners.

From "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline

Related Words

• collect
• conserve
• keep
• maintain
• manage
• spare
• store