Cool MateSlip
UK /["/slɪp/","/slɪps/","/slɪpt/","/ˈslɪpɪŋ/"]/US /["/slɪp/","/slɪps/","/slɪpt/","/ˈslɪpɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to slide a short distance by accident so that you fall or nearly fall
In simple words: to slide or fall unintentionally
Examples
- Be careful not to slip on the wet floor.
- He tried to slip the note under her door without being noticed.
- She managed to slip in a joke during the serious discussion.
- My watch seems to slip ahead by a few minutes every day.
- It's normal for plans to slip occasionally due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Make sure nothing will slip through the cracks during this busy time.
- The kids were so excited that they began to slip outside before their parents were ready.
Usage notes
Use 'slip' when referring to losing your grip or control, often in physical contexts. It's suitable in both casual and formal situations, but avoid using it in overly serious contexts unless it’s metaphorical.
Grammar pattern
slip + object
Memory hint
Think of slipping on a banana peel — very funny and memorable!
Collocations
- slip on ice
- slip through the cracks
- slip of the tongue
- slip into a conversation
- slip someone's mind
Synonyms
- creep
Antonyms
- grip
- hold
- steady
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'sneak' — they have different meanings.
- Using 'slip' as a transitive verb incorrectly.
- Mixing up 'slip' with 'trip' — they refer to different actions.