"Cut corners" is an idiom that can describe someone who takes shortcuts or finds ways to do something more quickly or easily, often at the expense of quality or thoroughness. In addition, it can also be used to criticize someone who acts unorthodoxly, illegally, or unethically to save time, money, or effort.
In short:
“Cut corners” is an idiom that means to do something badly or cheaply.
The idiom "cut corners" can have different meanings depending on how it is used and said. However, the most notable is that it describes doing something poorly or cheaply by skipping some steps or using inferior materials or methods.
For example:
“He was trying to finish the project ahead of schedule, so he started "cutting corners" and ended up with a low result.”
The idiom "cut corners" is believed to have originated from driving in the 1800s. It is related to rounding a corner instead of taking the proper route. This shortened the distance from one end to another. As a consequence, it also increased the risk of accidents and collisions.
The idiom became popular in the 1930s in America as a metaphor for doing something cheaply and easily.
The earliest recorded use of “cut corners” without a direct reference to driving was in a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald in 1934:
"He had been drinking gin at intervals all day and had gone over his limit before coming into dinner. Cut corners."
Here are some examples of how to use "cut corners" in different sentences:
Here are some examples of the idiom "cut corners" in pop culture:
Here are some synonyms for "cut corners":
Here are some common questions and answers about the idiom "cut corners":
It is believed to have originated from driving in the 1800s. It is related to rounding a corner instead of taking the proper route.
It is usually written as two words: cut corners. However, it can also be written as one word: cutcorners, especially when used as an adjective or a noun.
Example: He was accused of being a cutcorner lawyer.
You can use it in a question to ask someone if they have done something badly or cheaply or to accuse them of doing so.
Example: Did you "cut corners" on your report?
You can use it with other words to modify or specify the meaning of “cut corners.”
Example: He always "cuts corners" on his homework. What can I say? He's a lazy lad.
You can use commas before or after “cut corners” to separate it from the rest of the sentence.
Example: He was in a hurry, so he "cut corners" on his presentation.
You can use a colon after “cut corners” to introduce a list or an explanation.
Example: She "cut corners" on her project: she copied from the internet, she used cheap materials, and she didn’t proofread her work.
You can use an ellipsis after “cut corners” to indicate that you are leaving something unsaid or unfinished.
Example: He "cut corners" on his assignment… and he got caught.
You can use a dash after “cut corners” to interrupt yourself or change the subject.
Example: He "cut corners" on his test - but he still failed.
You can use it sarcastically to mock someone or something or to express disbelief or contempt.
Example: He "cut corners" on his surgery - what a great doctor!
You can use it politely to show respect or consideration for someone or something.
Example: He "cut corners" on his budget - but he still managed to donate to charity.
"Cut corners" is a versatile and helpful idiom that can convey different meanings and emotions depending on the context and tone. It can be used to:
We hope this article has helped you understand and appreciate the idiom "cut corners" better. Remember, cutting corners may seem tempting, but it can also backfire.
