Definition
偷工减料 is a fixed expression (chengyu) meaning to cut corners or use shoddy workmanship, typically in construction or manufacturing, by skipping necessary steps or using inferior materials to save time or money. It carries a strong negative connotation of dishonesty and irresponsibility, and is often used in criticism of contractors, products, or services that fail quality standards.
f.e.
cut corners (in workmanship)do shoddy work
Examples
- 偷工减料。Zhè jiā jiànzhù gōngsī yīnwèi tōu gōng jiǎn liào bèi fákuǎn le.This construction company was fined for cutting corners.
- 偷工减料，。Xiū fángzi de shíhòu juéduì bù néng tōu gōng jiǎn liào, fǒuzé yǐhòu huì yǒu dà máfan.When renovating a house you absolutely cannot cut corners, otherwise there will be big trouble later.
- 偷工减料，。Tāmen yòng liánjià cáiliào tōu gōng jiǎn liào, jiéguǒ dàqiáo hěn kuài jiù tā le.They used cheap materials to cut corners, and as a result the bridge collapsed soon after.
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