take a shortcut

USAGE SUMMARY

'take a shortcut' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a situation in which you are taking a quicker, perhaps less conventional route to achieve a goal. For example: "If I want to reach the library on time, I'll have to take a shortcut through the park."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I could take a shortcut.

The Guardian - Sport

So people take a shortcut.

The New York Times

He insisted that reporters take a shortcut.

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm going to take a shortcut here.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Clinton told him to take a shortcut.

The Washington Post

In my agitation, I decided to take a shortcut.

The New York Times

"They tried to take a shortcut to us.

The Guardian

And there are others, for whatever reason, who feel they can take a shortcut".

The New York Times

Instead, they're now using their wealth to take a shortcut, by buying up Western companies.

The New Yorker

It was Margaret's habit to take a shortcut across Shesheeb's land on her way to Mass.

The New Yorker

In this reality series, five performers hope to take a shortcut to stardom.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take a shortcut", consider the ethical implications. Ensure the shortcut doesn't compromise quality or integrity.

Common error

Avoid using "take a shortcut" when it sacrifices necessary steps or may lead to future complications. Sometimes, the longer route is more sustainable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take a shortcut" functions as a verb phrase, often acting as the predicate of a sentence. It describes the action of choosing an easier or faster, though sometimes less conventional, path to achieve a goal. Ludwig examples show it used both literally, like in navigation, and figuratively, referring to processes or methods.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take a shortcut" is a versatile expression used to describe opting for a quicker, often simpler, path. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically sound and commonly used. While generally neutral in register, it's important to consider the context and potential ethical implications. Related phrases such as "find a workaround" offer alternative ways to express similar ideas. When employing this phrase, be mindful of potential long-term consequences and ensure the chosen shortcut doesn't compromise necessary steps or ethical standards. It is very common in News & Media and Academia contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

find a workaround

Emphasizes finding an alternative method to bypass a problem or difficulty.

circumvent the process

Highlights avoiding a standard or expected procedure.

find an easier route

Focuses on discovering a less difficult path to a destination or objective.

adopt a streamlined approach

Suggests using a more efficient and less complicated method.

use a quick fix

Implies employing a temporary or expedient solution.

go the easy way

Highlights choosing the least resistant path.

seize an expedient

Indicates grasping an opportune and practical means.

jump the queue

Highlights skipping the normal order or sequence.

bypass the regulations

Emphasizes going around established rules or laws.

fast-track the procedure

Suggests accelerating a process, often in an unorthodox manner.

FAQs

How can I use "take a shortcut" in a sentence?

You can use "take a shortcut" to describe finding an easier or faster way to do something. For example, "I decided to take a shortcut through the park to get home quicker."

What are some alternatives to "take a shortcut"?

Alternatives include "find a workaround", "circumvent the process", or "find an easier route".

Is it always a good idea to "take a shortcut"?

Not always. While it can save time and effort, sometimes "take a shortcut" can compromise quality or skip important steps. It depends on the context.

What's the difference between "take a shortcut" and "cut corners"?

"Take a shortcut" generally implies finding a quicker route, while "cut corners" often suggests reducing quality or standards to save time or money. The latter has a more negative connotation.