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]

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Example Sentences

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

From Slate • Mar. 28, 2026

But as Longwell explained, Paxton’s bad behavior gets interpreted as evidence that he’s a “fighter” who is willing to cut corners to “get things done.”

From Salon • Mar. 4, 2026

Here’s one risk of customer pay: Some price-conscious drivers may be tempted to cut corners by buying parts that may be cheaper, but aren’t as roadworthy.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 23, 2025

"We know people are trying to cut corners on food, clothes, for basic toiletries, that's the way it's going, like back in your mummy's day nearly," she told BBC News NI.

From BBC • Jul. 22, 2025

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