slip away

USAGE SUMMARY

"slip away" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to describe the gradual disappearance of something, typically a person leaving a place or a fleeting moment in time passing. For example, you might write: "We watched the sun slowly slip away in the evening."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Don't let her slip away".

The New Yorker

"We let one slip away.

The New York Times - Sports

You slip away without speaking.

The New Yorker

"Don't let them slip away!

The New Yorker

Both saw it slip away.

The New York Times

Political will can slip away.

The New Yorker

Maybe it'll slip away.

The New Yorker

Roddick nearly let the match slip away.

The New York Times - Sports

Once caught, it can easily slip away".

The New Yorker

I saw her slip away.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I let it slip away," Clijsters said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slip away" to describe the quiet and unnoticed disappearance of something, whether it's time, an opportunity, or a person. It effectively conveys a sense of subtlety and gradual fading.

Common error

Avoid using "slip away" when you mean a sudden or forceful departure. It's better suited for describing gradual or subtle disappearances, not abrupt exits.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slip away" functions primarily as an intransitive verb, often used to describe a gradual or unnoticed departure or disappearance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a common and acceptable English phrase. Examples show it used for people leaving quietly, time passing, or opportunities being lost.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

8%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slip away" is a versatile and commonly used phrase that describes a quiet departure, disappearance, or the gradual passing of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is most frequently encountered in news and media, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts. When using "slip away", consider the subtle nuances it conveys – a sense of gradual fading or unnoticed movement. While other phrases like "sneak off" or "fade away" may be suitable alternatives depending on the specific context. The phrase is a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary. It is important to avoid using it in contexts where a sudden or forceful departure is meant, as this can lead to confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sneak off

This suggests a clandestine or secretive departure, emphasizing the desire to avoid being noticed.

steal away

Similar to "sneak off", this implies a secretive or hurried departure, often to avoid detection.

quietly leave

This focuses on the manner of departure, highlighting the absence of noise or disturbance.

fade away

This emphasizes a gradual disappearance, often used in the context of memories, feelings, or health.

drift off

Implies a slow, almost passive departure, often associated with sleep or losing consciousness.

disappear unnoticed

This underscores the lack of awareness surrounding the departure, suggesting it was subtle and unseen.

pass gradually

Focuses on the slow passage of time, often in an unnoticed way.

go unnoticed

Highlights the lack of attention or awareness surrounding an action or event, suggesting it was subtle or insignificant.

evaporate

This suggests a complete and often sudden disappearance, likening the departure to the process of evaporation.

dissipate

This indicates a gradual scattering or dispersal, often used in the context of energy, resources, or hopes.

FAQs

What does "slip away" mean?

"Slip away" generally means to leave quietly or unnoticed, or to gradually disappear or fade.

How can I use "slip away" in a sentence?

You can use "slip away" to describe someone leaving a place quietly (e.g., "He tried to "sneak off" without being noticed"), or to describe something gradually disappearing (e.g., "Our hopes began to "fade away"").

What are some alternatives to "slip away"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "sneak off", "quietly leave", "fade away", or "disappear unnoticed".

Is it correct to say "slipped away"?

Yes, "slipped away" is the past tense form of "slip away" and is perfectly correct. For example, "The opportunity "passed gradually"".