The idiom "To cut corners" means "To do something cheaply by ignoring proper standards." This phrase implies taking shortcuts or compromising on quality, thoroughness, or ethical practices to save time, money, or effort. When someone "cuts corners," they are typically sacrificing the integrity or excellence of a task or product for the sake of expediency or cost reduction.
For example, a construction company might cut corners by using cheaper, substandard materials to finish a project under budget, potentially compromising safety. Similarly, a student might cut corners on an assignment by plagiarizing instead of doing original research. The idiom carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of diligence or a willingness to compromise quality. It does not mean to improve quality, work with extreme care, or postpone work, as those actions are contrary to the idiom's core meaning of sacrificing standards for efficiency.