nip over

USAGE SUMMARY

"nip over" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used as an informal way of saying "go quickly (somewhere)." For example, "I'm going to nip over to the store to pick up some groceries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

I ate breakfast off my upright, and while something was boiling or baking for dinner I'd nip over and compose.

The Guardian - Music

People changing planes at JFK airport have been known to nip over in taxis to get a glimpse before nipping back in time for their next flight, which somewhat negates the concept of a leisurely stroll in the park.

The Guardian - Arts

But the deep joys of our superbly relaxing hotel were calling louder than other daytripping highlights, even the chance to nip over for a Turkish bath in Bodrum, a short ferry ride from here on the far east of the Dodecanese.

The Guardian - Travel

For good bread, however, he said he would have to nip over the border.

Independent

You can nip over to Hong Kong or spend a weekend in Dubai, or Rio.

The New York Times - Travel

As it reaches 7pm we nip over to Café Belgique for our first drink.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

With the visitors reduced to 14 men, Yarde missed Cory Jane on the right and Aaron Smith nipped over for his side's third try, converted by Aaron Cruden.

The Guardian - Sport

Caslick then nipped over for another converted try to further extend Australia's lead and although McAlister grabbed her second try, two converted scores for New Zealand in little more than a minute was always going to be a big ask.

The Guardian - Sport

There were several more of those but only one more Wolves try in the rest of the first half, when Chris Bridge nipped over from close range, although he was forced off shortly afterwards.

The Guardian - Sport

So you can grab your Marks & Spencer high-protein Fuller for Longer sandwich before nipping over to a health store and picking up a protein shake or even the punningly titled Wheyhey – an ice-cream that contains as much protein as a chicken breast.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

By the time the scrum-half and captain Henry Pyrgos smartly nipped over for a third Glasgow try in the 32nd minute the atmosphere was momentarily akin to Parkhead or Ibrox, not a comparison made too frequently in Glasgow's European history.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "nip over" in informal settings when you want to convey a sense of quick and easy movement to a nearby location. For example: "I'll nip over to your house after work."

Common error

While "nip over" is perfectly acceptable in casual conversation, it's best to avoid using it in formal writing or professional communication. Opt for more formal alternatives like "visit briefly" or "make a quick trip" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "nip over" functions as an intransitive phrasal verb, indicating movement to a location. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in contemporary English, especially in informal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Travel

14%

Sport

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "nip over" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to describe a brief and casual trip to a nearby location. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is most appropriate for informal contexts and should be avoided in formal writing. Consider using alternatives like "pop over" or "visit briefly" depending on the situation. While predominantly found in news and media, its use extends to travel and sport contexts, reflecting its everyday conversational tone. Use "nip over" when the goal is to express both speed and convenience in a visit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pop over

Similar in meaning, but slightly more casual.

dash over

Emphasizes the speed and quickness of the movement.

zip over

Implies a rapid and effortless movement.

run over

Suggests a quick trip, often for a specific purpose.

hop over

Suggests a short and light journey.

swing by

Indicates a brief and often unplanned visit.

come over

A more general term for visiting someone's place.

go over

A general term for moving to another location.

visit briefly

A more formal way of saying "nip over".

make a quick trip

Emphasizes the shortness of the visit.

FAQs

How can I use "nip over" in a sentence?

You can use "nip over" to describe a quick and casual trip to a nearby location. For example: "I'm going to "nip over" to the store to get some milk."

What does "nip over" mean?

"Nip over" means to go quickly or briefly to a place that is nearby. It suggests a short and easy journey.

Which is more formal, "nip over" or "visit briefly"?

"Visit briefly" is more formal than "nip over". "Nip over" is suitable for casual conversation, while "visit briefly" is better for formal writing.

What are some synonyms for "nip over"?

Some synonyms for "nip over" include "pop over", "dash over", and "run over". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.