shortcut
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈʃɔːrtˌkʌt/
KK: /ˈʃɔrtˌkʌt/
noun
Definition
A way to save time or effort by taking a quicker route or method than usual.
Example
I took a shortcut through the park to get to my meeting faster.
Conversation
I found a shortcut to the park that saves a lot of time.
Really? I always take the longer route.
Yeah, it’s way more direct and avoids all that traffic.
I need to try that next time I go out!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bypass
detour
route
Antonyms
detour
longway
roundabout
verb
Definition
To take a quicker route or method to reach a destination or achieve a goal.
Example
She decided to shortcut through the park to get home faster.
Tense Forms
Past: shortcutted
Past Participle: shortcutted
Conversation
I found a shortcut to the coffee shop we like.
Really? That would save us a lot of time.
Yeah, it cuts through the park, so it's much quicker.
Root Explanation
Shortcut → It is formed from "short" (from Old English *sceort*, meaning not long) and "cut" (from Old English *cuttian*, meaning to sever or divide). The word "shortcut" refers to a route that is shorter than the usual one, effectively severing distance or time.
Memory Tip
Think of taking a 'short' route instead of a long one — that's why a shortcut means a quicker way to reach your destination.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.