slip off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slip off" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used as an intransitive verb to mean to "come or go away quickly and quietly". For example: "He slipped off into the night without saying goodbye."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

But House Democrats sometimes slip off message.

The New York Times

Using paring knife, slip off skins.

The New York Times - Food

Once cooled, slip off the outer skins.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And again it would slip off centre.

The Guardian - Music

Cool them and slip off their skins.

The New York Times

Cool and slip off their skins.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Arrow, slip-off event.

eLife

Slip-off events were rare (17 total in three sessions) compared to detach without slip-off.

eLife

The saddle-node bifurcation corresponds to slip-off.

eLife

Red line, whisker shape immediately (<32 ms) before slip-off.

eLife

Frame of slip-off is highlighted in red.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "slip off" to describe removing clothing, ensure the context makes it clear that the action is being done intentionally and usually quickly. For example: "He slipped off his shoes after a long day."

Common error

Avoid using "slip off" when a more forceful or deliberate removal is intended; words like "rip" or "tear" might be more appropriate if the action involves force or damage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slip off" primarily functions as an intransitive verb, indicating a movement or detachment. Ludwig examples show it describing items detaching from surfaces or people leaving discreetly. It is used to convey actions that happen quickly, sometimes unintentionally or subtly.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "slip off" functions primarily as an intransitive verb, denoting a subtle or unintended detachment or departure. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts. Its communicative purpose varies from describing physical objects detaching to individuals quietly leaving, typically in a neutral register. Frequent usage in News & Media and Wiki underscores its general applicability. While similar to phrases like "slide off" and "sneak away", each carries nuanced differences. It's important to consider the context to ensure appropriateness of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slide off

Emphasizes a smooth, uncontrolled movement away from a surface.

sneak away

Highlights the act of leaving discreetly or unnoticed.

peel away

Suggests a separation or detachment, often with a sense of effort or resistance.

come off

Implies a detachment or removal, often as a result of wear or looseness.

ease out

Indicates a gradual and gentle movement outward or away.

drift away

Suggests a slow and passive movement away, often due to external forces.

detach from

Focuses on the separation from a connection or attachment.

become dislodged

Describes the state of being forced out of position.

quietly depart

Stresses the act of leaving a place without attracting attention.

subtly exit

Highlights the act of leaving in a discreet and unobtrusive manner.

FAQs

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

You can use "slip off" to describe someone leaving quietly, like "She "slipped off" during the meeting". It can also mean something unintentionally detaching, such as "The cover "slipped off" the container".

What's the difference between "slip off" and "slide off"?

"Slip off" often implies a subtle or unintended detachment, while "slide off" suggests a smoother, more continuous movement. For example, "The ice made the car slide off the road" versus "The strap "slipped off" her shoulder".

What can I say instead of "slip off"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "slide off", "sneak away", or "detach from". The best choice depends on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it correct to say something "slipped off of" something else?

While not strictly incorrect, saying something "slipped off of" something is often considered less concise than simply saying it ""slipped off"" something. The "of" is usually unnecessary.