slip into

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slip into" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of entering or putting on something, often in a smooth or subtle manner. Example: "As the sun began to set, she decided to slip into her favorite dress for the evening."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Sometimes I slip into it.

Independent

A madness you slip into.

The New Yorker

I slip into utter absorption mode.

The New Yorker

Sandals will slip into newly fabricated stirrups.

The New York Times

Reticence and awkwardness slip into the room.

The New Yorker

America may yet slip into recession.

The Economist

I felt the bone slip into place.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Re "Two Tiers, Slipping Into One" (Feb.

The New York Times

I slipped into unconsciousness".

The New York Times - Magazine

He slowly slipped into depression.

Independent

Then he slipped into obscurity.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slip into" to suggest a smooth, effortless, or subtle entry into a state, place, or garment. For example, "She can "slip into" a new identity with ease" or "He likes to "slip into" comfortable clothes after work".

Common error

Avoid using "slip into" to describe forceful or abrupt actions. "Slip into" implies a gentle, gradual movement, not a sudden or violent one. For example, instead of "The army "slipped into" the enemy territory", use "invaded" or "entered" to more accurately convey the action.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "slip into" functions primarily as a verb of movement or transition, indicating the act of entering something, whether physical or abstract, with ease or subtlety. As Ludwig AI clarifies, it describes a smooth or subtle entry. Examples show usage with clothing, states of mind, and even abstract concepts like normalcy or despair.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "slip into" is a versatile expression used to describe a smooth or gradual transition into a place, state, or condition. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's often associated with ease and subtlety. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, with neutral register, and functions primarily as a verb of movement or transition. While there are alternative phrases like "slide into" or "fall into", they carry slightly different connotations. To ensure accurate usage, remember that "slip into" is not suitable for describing forceful actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slide into

This alternative implies a smooth, effortless entry, often suggesting a lack of resistance or friction.

fall into

This suggests an unintentional or passive entry, often into a negative state or situation.

descend into

This implies a gradual decline or progression into a worse state or condition.

drift into

This suggests a slow, almost imperceptible movement into a state or situation, often without conscious awareness.

sink into

This conveys a feeling of being overwhelmed or consumed by something, often a negative emotion or situation.

ease into

This implies a gentle, gradual entry, prioritizing comfort and avoiding abruptness.

merge into

This suggests a blending or integration into something larger or more encompassing.

enter

A more generic term for going into a place or state. Lacks the nuance of ease or gradual transition.

don

Specifically refers to putting on clothing, maintaining a physical act of entering something.

get into

Indicates starting to enjoy or become involved in something, reflecting a transition into a hobby or activity.

FAQs

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

You can use "slip into" to describe entering something smoothly or effortlessly, like "She can "slip into" a dress" or to describe falling into a state, like "He can "slip into" despair".

What are some alternatives to "slip into"?

Depending on the context, you could use "slide into", "fall into", or "ease into".

Is it correct to say "slip into oblivion"?

Yes, "slip into oblivion" is a common expression that suggests a gradual fading into obscurity or nothingness.

What's the difference between "slip into" and "fall into"?

"Slip into" often implies a smoother, more subtle transition, while "fall into" suggests a more accidental or unintentional entry.