Shortcut
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3
Often Informal
The term 'shortcut' in daily conversation can suggest impromptu, not officially designated paths. We can take a shortcut down this alley instead of the main road.
Pro Tip 2/3
Sometimes Secretive
Some shortcuts are known by few and can feel like clever secrets to save time. Let me show you a shortcut to the library that most students don't know about.
Pro Tip 3/3
Physical and Metaphorical
The word can describe both an actual path and a metaphor for more efficient methods. Using a fish scaler is a shortcut to preparing fish.