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Phrasal verbs "slip away" vs "slip by"

Differences between slip away and slip by

Slip away means to leave quietly or unnoticed, while slip by means to pass quickly or unnoticed.

Meanings and Definitions: slip away vs slip by

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Slip away

  • 1Lose an opportunity or the chance of winning, succeeding, etc.

    Their hopes of getting back into the game SLIPPED AWAY after the second goal.

  • 2Pass quickly ( time ).

    The year has SLIPPED AWAY and it is hard to believe it's over.

Slip by

  • 1Pass quickly ( time ).

    The years SLIP BY as you get older.

  • 2Lose an opportunity or the chance of winning, succeeding, etc.

    He didn't follow the offer up and let it SLIP BY.

Usage Examples: slip away, slip by in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

slip away

Example

Their chances of winning the game slipped away after the second goal.

Example

Time slips away when you're having fun.

slip by

Example

The days slip by so quickly when you're on vacation.

Example

Time slips by when you're having fun.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Slip away

sneak out

To leave quietly or secretly without being noticed.

Example

She didn't want to disturb anyone, so she decided to sneak out of the party.

fade away

To disappear gradually or slowly over time.

Example

The memories of her childhood faded away as she grew older.

make oneself scarce

To leave a place or situation without being noticed or causing attention.

Example

When the argument started, he decided to make himself scarce and avoid any conflict.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Slip by

pass up

To miss an opportunity or fail to take advantage of it.

Example

He passed up the chance to study abroad and now regrets it.

go unnoticed

To not be seen or recognized.

Example

Her hard work often goes unnoticed by her colleagues.

fly by

To pass quickly or rapidly.

Example

The weekend flew by and before she knew it, it was Monday again.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “slip”

Phrasal Verbs with “by”

Differences in slip away vs slip by: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: slip away or slip by?

Both phrases are used in everyday conversation, but slip by is more common. It's often used to describe time passing quickly or missing an opportunity. Slip away is less common and usually used to describe someone leaving without being noticed.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of slip away and slip by

Both slip away and slip by are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of slip away and slip by

The tone of slip away and slip by can differ based on context. Slip away often carries a sad or regretful tone when related to people leaving, while slip by typically has a neutral or slightly negative tone, especially when referring to missed opportunities or time passing too quickly.

slip away & slip by: Synonyms and Antonyms

Slip by

Antonyms

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