Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

To cut corners

not do a thing well in order to save money or effort

The most appropriate meaning of the idiom "to cut corners" is not do a thing well in order to save money or effort.

The other options are incorrect.

• "Cut something easily without spoiling it" is not the same as cut corners. Cutting something easily without spoiling it means to do something carefully and precisely, while cutting corners means to do something in a way that is not careful or precise.
• "Cut something into pieces" is not the same as cut corners. Cutting something into pieces means to divide something into many smaller parts, while cutting corners means to do something in a way that is not thorough or complete.
• "Be able to do a job effortlessly" is not the same as cut corners. Being able to do a job effortlessly means to be able to do something without difficulty, while cutting corners means to do something in a way that is not thorough or complete.

The idiom "to cut corners" comes from the idea of cutting a corner on a path or road. This is a way of making the path shorter, but it also means that the path is not as smooth or safe. In the same way, someone who cuts corners is someone who does not do something thoroughly or completely in order to save time or money. This can often lead to problems or mistakes.