WordVale

cut corners

to do something cheaply or carelessly

In Idioms & Sayings

In more detail

(idiom) to do something in the quickest or cheapest way possible, often by leaving out important steps or quality

Examples

• The contractor cut corners on the construction, using cheap materials instead of quality ones.

How to use cut corners

This idiom is used negatively to describe inadequate or careless work, implying that someone is prioritizing speed or cost at the expense of quality or standards. It typically appears in business, construction, and service contexts. Unlike 'economize' (which is neutral), 'cut corners' carries a clear judgment that important standards have been compromised.

Common phrases

• cut corners on safety
• cut corners on cost
• can't afford to cut corners
• cutting corners is
• don't cut corners

Synonyms

take shortcuts · skimp · economize · compromise on quality · cut back

Opposites

be thorough · do things properly

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use it as a neutral term for simple efficiency, but it is distinctly negative and implies wrongdoing or poor judgment rather than smart planning.

Nearby in Idioms & Sayings

beat around the bush, once in a blue moon, the tip of the iceberg, bite the bullet, break the ice, piece of cake

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained