1
general::
Do something in the easiest or least expensive way; also, act illegally. For example, Cutting corners in production led to a definite loss in product quality, or If the accountant cuts corners the auditors are sure to find out. This term alludes to rounding a corner as closely as possible in order to shorten the distance traversed and/or save time. [Late 1800s]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): cut corners
Fig. to take shortcuts; to save money or effort by finding cheaper or easier ways to do something. • They’re always finding ways to cut corners. • I won’t cut corners just to save money. I put quality first.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs