slipped out

USAGE SUMMARY

"slipped out" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that was said or done accidentally or unexpectedly. For example: "The words slipped out before I could think about them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He slipped out early.

The New York Times

"My foot just slipped out".

The New York Times - Sports

The comment slipped out".

The Guardian - Sport

It must have slipped out somewhere.

The New Yorker

"It just slipped out," said Jones.

The Guardian

They slipped out during the dinner lull.

The New Yorker

Bryan slipped out for one last score.

The New York Times

I slipped out to join them.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This time it just slipped out".

The Guardian

Ladd slipped out to check on the kids.

The New Yorker

Mr Bout has slipped out of tight corners before.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slipped out" to describe actions done quickly, quietly, or unintentionally. For example, "He slipped out of the meeting before it ended."

Common error

Avoid using "slipped out" when a more direct term like "left" or "exited" is more appropriate, especially in formal contexts where subtlety is not desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "slipped out" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of leaving quietly or unintentionally. Ludwig's examples show its use in describing physical departures and unintentional utterances. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

12%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slipped out" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to describe a quiet or unintentional exit, or a statement made inadvertently. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media contexts, but also appears in Science and Wiki sources. While generally neutral in tone, "slipped out" carries a connotation of stealth or lack of intention. Remember to consider the context when choosing between "slipped out" and more direct alternatives like "left" or "exited".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quietly exited

Highlights the discreet and subdued nature of leaving.

stepped out

Indicates a brief and intentional departure.

secretly left

Implies a clandestine departure, avoiding detection.

escaped unnoticed

Suggests a successful evasion, remaining unseen.

accidentally said

Focuses on the unintentional nature of a verbal utterance.

inadvertently revealed

Highlights the unintended disclosure of information.

lost control

Emphasizes a loss of command or grip, physically or figuratively.

came loose

Describes something detaching or becoming unfastened.

became dislodged

Suggests a forceful displacement from a fixed position.

became unstuck

Implies separation from a formerly adhered state.

FAQs

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

You can use "slipped out" to describe a quiet or unnoticed departure, as in, "She "quietly exited" the room." It can also describe something said unintentionally, like "The secret "accidentally revealed" during the conversation."

What are some alternatives to "slipped out"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases such as "stepped out", "secretly left", or "accidentally said" as alternatives to "slipped out".

Is it correct to say "slipped out of"?

Yes, it is correct. The preposition "of" is frequently used with "slipped out" to indicate escaping from a place or situation, such as "He stepped out of the party early."

When should I use "slipped out" versus "left"?

"Slipped out" implies a degree of stealth or unobtrusiveness, while "left" is a more neutral term. Use "slipped out" when the manner of departure is important, suggesting it was done quietly or without attracting attention. Using "quietly exited" could be a good alternative.