cut corners

You use it as a verb phrase. You can say someone is cutting corners or cut corners in the past. It often describes construction, cooking, or business projects. If your new phone breaks in a week, the company probably cut corners during manufacturing. Use it when you see a result that looks a bit 'shady' or unfinished.

Use it when discussing a project that failed because of laziness. It is great for office meetings about budget cuts. You can use it when complaining about a bad meal at a restaurant. It works well when giving advice to a friend. For example, 'Don't cut corners on your taxes!' It is perfect for describing a 'quick fix' that didn't actually fix anything.

Do not use it for genuine efficiency. If someone finds a brilliant, high-quality shortcut, that is not cutting corners. Avoid using it as a compliment. If you tell your boss they cut corners, they will think you are insulting their work. It implies a lack of integrity. Don't use it for hobbies where the 'long way' is the whole point.

This phrase likely comes from old horse-and-carriage days. Drivers would take tight turns around corners to save time. This was dangerous because the carriage could flip over. Today, it reflects the Western obsession with speed versus quality. In many cultures, doing things 'the right way' is a matter of pride. Calling someone out for cutting corners is a serious critique of their character.

You might hear people say take shortcuts. This is very similar but slightly less negative. Another variation is pinch pennies, which focuses only on the money side. Sometimes people say do a hack job. That is much more informal and aggressive. If you hear skimping on, it means cutting corners specifically with materials or ingredients.