Meaning & Explanation
The idiom “Cut corners” means to do something in the easiest, quickest, or cheapest way, often by skipping important steps or lowering standards. It usually implies compromising quality for convenience.
Hindi Equivalent:
“काम को आसान और सस्ते तरीके से करना”
Literal Meaning: “To do work in an easy and cheap way”
Detailed Explanation
This phrase originates from the idea of taking shortcuts—literally cutting corners instead of following the proper path. It suggests:
Shortcuts: Avoiding proper procedures to save time/money Compromised Quality: Results may suffer due to rushed work Risk-Taking: Potential negative consequences of skipping steps
Real-Life Examples
1. Construction Work
- English: “The builder cut corners, and now the house has leaks.”
- Hindi: “मकान बनाने वाले ने काम आसान तरीके से किया, और अब घर में लीकेज हो रहा है।”
2. Business Practices
- English: “The company cut corners on safety to reduce costs.”
- Hindi: “कंपनी ने खर्च कम करने के लिए सेफ्टी में कटौती की।”
3. Student Life
- English: “He cut corners by copying assignments instead of studying.”
- Hindi: “उसने पढ़ाई की बजाय नकल करके काम आसान कर लिया।”
Psychological & Social Insight
Why People Cut Corners:
✓ Time Pressure: Trying to finish quickly
✓ Cost Savings: Reducing expenses
✓ Laziness: Avoiding hard work
Negative Effects:
✗ Poor quality results
✗ Safety risks
✗ Damaged reputation
Usage Tips
Often used in a negative context Common in discussions about quality vs. speed Can imply unethical behavior
Similar Expressions
| English | Hindi |
|---|---|
| “Take shortcuts” | “छोटा रास्ता अपनाना” |
| “Skimp on” | “कम खर्च करना” |
| “Do a slapdash job” | “झटपट काम करना” |
Cultural Perspectives
- Western Work Culture: Often criticized in professional settings
- Indian Context: Known as “जुगाड़” (jugaad) when innovative, but risky if overdone
- Global Business: Quality standards discourage corner-cutting
Reflection Questions:
- When is cutting corners acceptable?
- How can we balance efficiency and quality?
- Have you faced problems because someone cut corners?
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