Cutting corner

What is the origin of phrase 'cutting corners'? Thanks.

It is an allusion to the phenomenon of taking a diagonal, short route from one place to another rather than going to the end of one road (literally or figuratively) then taking a 90 degree turn to the left or right and following that road to your destination: thus cutting off the corner.

It means, simply, to use the quick and easy solution to any problem.

DFG

Does it? When I use "cutting corners", or hear it used, I take it to mean "leaving out things you would and should normally do (such as leaving a margin for safety, or maintaining high quality, or informing people who have a right to know) for the sake of speed/economy". It's entirely a matter of context (and outcome) whether cutting corners is a good thing to do or not. (VSD)