Learning English Conversations The English We Speak: Cut corners
20 snips
Mar 10, 2026 Conversation explains the expression "cut corners" with a literal image of runners taking shortcuts. They explore the metaphor of choosing easier, cheaper routes that reduce quality. Examples cover events, health and time pressure. The phrase is contrasted with ideas like going the extra mile.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Decorator Job Left Incomplete
- Feifei describes decorators who left parts unfinished and didn't tidy up, illustrating poor workmanship from taking shortcuts.
- Georgie compares this to runners who move to inner lanes to shorten distance, showing the literal origin of cutting corners.
Origin And Meaning Of Cut Corners
- Cutting corners literally comes from runners taking a shortcut into inner lanes at the track corners to run a shorter distance.
- Metaphorically it means choosing an easier, quicker, or cheaper way that often reduces quality, as Feifei explains about the decorators.
Avoid Cutting Corners On Critical Tasks
- Don't cut corners when the outcome matters, for example you can't cut corners on health and safety or important client events.
- Georgie gives examples: prioritise perfection for a key client reception and follow health and safety to avoid harm.