Words / B2

SLIP/slɪp/

To slip is to slide accidentally, to decline gradually, or to make a small mistake: slip into anecdote; a slip of the pen. Slide is more deliberate; fall is heavier. Do not let the argument slip. Noun: a slip-up. Mix-up: sleep is rest (already in the dictionary); slippers are shoes. Do not write slip for a planned transition.

Meaning

To slide accidentally; also to decline gradually, or to make a small mistake (a slip).

Examples

• “Do not let the argument slip into anecdote in the last paragraph.”
• “Standards slipped after staffing cuts, which is the decline sense.”

Good to know

slip on / into; a slip; slip-up. Decline: slip. Trap: sleep. Essays, news, and H&S. Accident, decline, or small error.

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