jump ship

USAGE SUMMARY

"jump ship" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to refer to abandoning one's responsibilities or leaving a difficult situation, usually figuratively. For example, "When the company began to face financial troubles, many of the employees decided to jump ship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Backers began to jump ship.

The New York Times

"Mel and Sue jump ship.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I had to jump ship".

The New York Times - Arts

Advisers calculate when to jump ship.

The Economist

If only I could jump ship".

The New Yorker

"They can all jump ship," he said.

The New Yorker

You might as well just jump ship!

The New York Times

Others may want to jump ship.

The Economist

Maybe they're trying to jump ship.

The New York Times - Food

"Britain was the first to jump ship".

The Guardian

So when do the reasonable conservatives jump ship?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and the level of formality required. While "jump ship" is widely understood, it's an informal expression and may not be appropriate for all professional settings. Adapt your language to maintain clarity, professionalism, and proper context.

Common error

Avoid using "jump ship" when someone leaves a company for a better opportunity, where the company is doing well. "Jump ship" implies the company or project is failing.

Linguistic Context

"Jump ship" primarily functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It describes the act of abruptly leaving a situation, often implying that the situation is deteriorating or that the person is seeking a more favorable alternative. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "jump ship" is a versatile phrase used to describe the act of abandoning a commitment, especially in a troubled or failing situation. Ludwig AI validates that this expression is grammatically sound and frequently encountered. Primarily found in journalistic writing across various sources like The New York Times, The Guardian and The Economist, "jump ship" conveys a sense of urgency and self-preservation. When choosing to use this phrase, ensure it aligns with the situation where the abandonment is prompted by negative circumstances. If a more formal tone is needed, consider phrases like "resign" or "withdraw". Finally, understanding these nuances allows for effective communication across diverse settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leave the sinking ship

This alternative conveys a sense of impending doom and the need to escape a failing venture.

bail out

This term suggests a sudden departure from a difficult situation, often to avoid negative consequences.

abandon post

This alternative emphasizes desertion of a specific duty or position, often in a formal context.

desert the cause

This phrase focuses on abandoning a shared belief or movement.

defect

Implies abandoning loyalty or allegiance to one group or cause in favor of another.

walk away

Suggests a deliberate decision to disengage from a situation, often due to ethical or personal reasons.

quit

A general term for leaving a job or commitment, without the specific implication of escaping a bad situation.

resign

A formal way of leaving a position, implying a voluntary decision.

flee the scene

Suggests leaving a place quickly, often because of danger or fear.

withdraw

Indicates a formal removal from a commitment or agreement.

FAQs

What does it mean to "jump ship"?

The phrase "jump ship" means to abandon a commitment or responsibility, especially when facing difficulties or when things are going badly. It typically refers to leaving a company, team, or project.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "jump ship"?

It's appropriate when someone leaves a situation that is perceived as failing or becoming unsustainable. It implies a sense of urgency or self-preservation in leaving.

What can I say instead of "jump ship"?

You can use alternatives like "bail out", "desert the cause", or "leave the sinking ship" depending on the specific context.

Is "jump ship" considered a formal or informal expression?

"Jump ship" is generally considered an informal expression. In more formal settings, it's better to use phrases like "resign", "withdraw", or "abandon the project".