Cut Corners – Idiom of the Day for IELTS Speaking

Have you ever heard someone use the phrase “cut corners” and wondered what it really means? This post will help you understand this useful idiom and how to use it naturally in everyday conversation. When preparing for the IELTS exam, using idioms naturally can give you a boost in your Speaking score. One such commonly used idiom is “cut corners.” It’s often used in conversations related to quality, work, and efficiency. Let’s explore its meaning, usage, and how you can confidently use it in IELTS Speaking and Writing.

What Does Cut Corners Mean?

Definition: To cut corners means to do something quickly, cheaply, or carelessly by avoiding proper rules or standards, often leading to poor results.

This idiom usually has a negative connotation, as it implies sacrificing quality or ignoring the correct way to save time, effort, or money.

Examples in Sentences

• The builder cut corners by using cheap materials, and now the walls are cracking.
• She always cuts corners when writing essays, so her work is full of mistakes.
• The restaurant was fined because they cut corners on hygiene.

Why Use Idioms Like “Cut Corners” in IELTS?

Idioms make your language sound more fluent and natural. In the IELTS Speaking test, examiners look for a wide range of vocabulary, including idiomatic expressions, especially when used appropriately. However, you should use them naturally and sparingly forced idioms may sound unnatural and affect your score.

IELTS Speaking Sample Answers Using “Cut Corners”

You can use this idiom: cut corners in IELTS Speaking Part 1, Part 2, or IELTS Speaking Part 3. Here are a few examples:

1. Speaking Part 1 – Everyday Situations

Question: Do you like cooking at home?
Answer: Yes, I do, but I don’t like cutting corners when cooking. I prefer to take my time and prepare meals properly, even if it takes longer.

2. Speaking Part 2 – Cue Card

Describe a time when you bought something of poor quality.
Sample Answer:
Last year, I bought a pair of shoes online because they were very cheap. At first, I thought I was getting a good deal, but within a week, the sole started to come off. It was clear the company had cut corners in production by using poor materials. That experience taught me to invest in quality rather than just looking for the lowest price.

3. Speaking Part 3 – Discussion

Question: Why do some companies cut corners in their business?
Answer: Many companies cut corners to save costs and maximize profits. For instance, they may use low-quality materials or avoid proper safety checks. While this might reduce expenses in the short term, it often harms their reputation and customer trust in the long run.

IELTS Writing Example Using “Cut Corners”

Topic: Some people believe that fast food is convenient, while others think it has more disadvantages. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Sentence using idiom:
Fast food companies often cut corners by using cheaper ingredients and additives, which leads to health issues such as obesity and diabetes among consumers.

Common Mistakes with “Cut Corners”

Incorrect: The company improved its products by cutting corners.
Correct: The company’s products became worse because they cut corners.

Remember, cut corners always refers to a negative action.

Practice Exercise

Fill in the blanks with the correct form of cut corners:

1. The teacher warned students not to __________ while preparing for the exam.
2. The construction collapsed because the builders __________ during the process.
3. You can’t expect good results if you keep __________ in your work.

(Answers: 1. cut corners, 2. cut corners, 3. cutting corners)

Synonyms & Related Expressions

• Take shortcuts – to do something quickly without following proper steps.
• Skimp on – to use less of something than needed to save money.
• Compromise on quality – to reduce standards for cost or time.

The idiom “cut corners” is highly useful in IELTS Speaking and Writing when talking about quality, business practices, or efficiency. By practicing idioms like this, you can enrich your IELTS Vocabulary, make your answers more natural, and aim for a higher band score.

If you’re aiming for a higher band score, make sure to practice idioms in context and check out the IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+ to further enhance your vocabulary and overall test performance.

Also Check: 

• 21+ Tips On How to Improve Your IELTS Writing Band Score
• IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+
• IELTS Writing Task 1 Connectors
• 10 Useful IELTS Speaking Tips to Impress the Examiner
• Useful Idioms for IELTS Speaking to Score Band 8.0+