To take a shortcut

Context #1

Tom:  Wow! The traffic is really bad on this freeway. I think we are going to be late for class.

Jim: Don't worry! Get off at the next exit. I know a shortcut that we can take.

Context #2

Samantha: This Friday me and my boyfriend are going to a concert at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. I know the traffic on the 10 freeway is going to be bad around rush-hour. Do you know of any shortcuts?

Jenny: Yeah, don't go the freeway. Just take Pico Blvd all the way to the Staples Center. It will be a lot faster.

Meaning: "to take a shortcut" means to take the fastest or shortest route to your destination. It is often used when there is traffic or construction that may be causing delays. 

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