slipped down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slipped down" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to describe the movement of something, such as a person or object, when they or it moves downward. For example: "He slipped down the stairs, tripping over his own feet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Then he slipped down the memory chute.

The New York Times - Arts

The gas floated up; the rock slipped down.

The New York Times

One by one, they slipped down ropes to waiting vehicles.

The New York Times

It slipped down well; refreshing, tart, and yet sweet.

The Guardian

In 2015, it slipped down to eleven seats.

The New Yorker

Jawad slipped down to a tie for third place.

The Guardian - Sport

Mick Harty's hands slipped down over the backs of Vivien's thighs.

The New Yorker

It was Atléti's first defeat under Simeone and they slipped down to ninth.

The Guardian - Sport

They eventually slipped down the league and finished a disappointing 10th.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — A tear slipped down C. Vivian Stringer's left cheek.

The New York Times - Sports

After that heat, Payne has slipped down to tenth but could still make the semis.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a decline in rankings or standings, consider using "slipped down" to emphasize a gradual or unexpected movement to a lower position.

Common error

Avoid using "slipped down" in highly formal or technical writing where a more precise term like "decreased", "declined", or "descended" would be more appropriate. "Slipped down" can sometimes sound too casual.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slipped down" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often used to describe a physical action of moving downward unintentionally or a figurative decline in status, rank, or condition. Ludwig provides many examples of its varied usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "slipped down" is a versatile verb phrase that is frequently used to describe both physical downward movement and figurative declines. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts. While it's commonly found in news and media, its usage in formal writing should be carefully considered in favor of more precise alternatives when necessary. Its neutral to informal register makes it suitable for general communication, but awareness of the context is key to ensuring effective and appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slid down

Implies a smooth, often unintentional, descent.

fell down

Suggests a sudden and uncontrolled drop.

dropped down

Indicates a descent, often implying a loss of position or status.

declined

Refers to a decrease in quality, quantity, or importance.

descended

Formal term for moving or falling downward.

plummeted

Describes a rapid and significant drop.

deteriorated

Indicates a worsening of condition or quality.

worsened

Similar to deteriorated, but can apply to a broader range of situations.

receded

Implies a gradual retreat or decline.

subsided

Suggests a lessening in intensity or importance.

FAQs

How can I use "slipped down" in a sentence?

You can use "slipped down" to describe a physical movement, like "He slipped down the hill", or a figurative decline, such as "The company's ranking slipped down after the scandal".

What's the difference between "slid down" and "slipped down"?

"Slid down" typically implies a smooth and controlled descent, while "slipped down" suggests a less controlled, perhaps accidental, movement.

What can I say instead of "slipped down" when referring to a decline in rankings?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "dropped", "declined", or "fell".

Is it correct to say "slipped down" when something gradually decreases?

Yes, "slipped down" can be used to describe a gradual decrease or decline, but it's important to consider the register. In more formal contexts, "decreased" or "diminished" might be more suitable.