allowed to slide

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "allowed to slide" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is being overlooked or not enforced, often in a lenient or forgiving context. Example: "Although the deadline was missed, the manager decided to let it slide this time due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Africa cannot be allowed to slide backwards.

The Economist

"It's funny; in the minors, we're not allowed to slide headfirst," Nava said.

The New York Times

A weight, or "messenger," is then allowed to slide down the cable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It would be a disaster, to put it at its mildest, if any of the institutions were allowed to slide".

The New York Times

Some have rooms that are unusable, while maintenance work has been allowed to slide in others, Roberts says.

The Guardian

Many of the UK stores need revamping, the chain's prices are no longer viewed as the sharpest, and service levels have been allowed to slide.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Extend and allow to slide.

WikiHow

What is the cost of these artificially set boundaries? Public promises that are not kept but allowed to slide--We are making connections so you make yours--hurt every future effort to improve service and reliability.

Huffington Post

In knee flexion, the patella tendon was then allowed to spontaneously slide medially to track within the femoral groove.

Acta Orthopaedica

His one-hop throw to catcher Vance Wilson allowed Jones to slide safely in with the game-winner.

The New York Times - Sports

"That Neanderthal philosophy has governed for about the last eight years, and it has allowed us to slide from a leader in this field to an abysmal position.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "allowed to slide" in your writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates who or what is permitting the action. For example, "The company was allowed to slide into debt due to poor management."

Common error

Avoid using "allowed to slide" without a clear subject or agent performing the action. Ambiguity can arise if it's unclear who is permitting the sliding or decline. Always specify the responsible party.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "allowed to slide" functions as a verb phrase in the passive voice. It indicates that someone or something is permitting a decline or deterioration. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts, from financial situations to physical movement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "allowed to slide" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, signifying a permitted decline or neglect. Its usage spans from news and media to scientific contexts, reflecting its versatility in describing various scenarios where standards or conditions are deteriorating due to lack of intervention. While generally neutral, its tone can lean towards professional. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly identifies who or what is granting this permission. Consider alternatives like "permitted to slip" or "let go unchecked" to adjust the nuance as needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

permitted to slip

Focuses on the act of granting permission for something to decline.

let go unchecked

Highlights the lack of supervision or control, allowing a situation to worsen.

allowed to decline

Emphasizes a gradual deterioration that is permitted to happen.

left to deteriorate

Stresses abandonment and neglect, leading to a decline.

given free rein

Suggests complete freedom of movement or action without constraints.

permitted to proceed unhindered

Highlights the absence of obstacles or restrictions.

tolerated to worsen

Indicates acceptance of a deteriorating condition without intervention.

enabled to degrade

Focuses on the act of facilitating a decline, often unintentionally.

overlooked and ignored

Emphasizes negligence and lack of attention to a problem.

not prevented from worsening

Highlights the failure to take action to stop a decline.

FAQs

What does "allowed to slide" mean?

The phrase "allowed to slide" typically means something is being overlooked, neglected, or permitted to decline without intervention. It often implies a passive acceptance of a deteriorating situation.

How can I use "allowed to slide" in a sentence?

You can use "allowed to slide" to describe situations where standards are dropping, maintenance is neglected, or someone is being given a pass on their responsibilities. For example, "Service levels have been "allowed to slide" due to budget cuts."

What are some alternatives to "allowed to slide"?

Some alternatives include "permitted to slip", "let go unchecked", or "allowed to decline", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "allowed to slide"?

It's appropriate when describing a situation where a decline or neglect is occurring due to a lack of enforcement or intervention. However, be mindful of the passive voice and ensure clarity regarding who or what is permitting the action.