Phrasal verbs "slip out" vs "sneak out"

Differences between slip out and sneak out

Slip out and sneak out are both phrasal verbs that refer to leaving a place quietly, but there is a subtle difference in their connotation. Slip out implies leaving discreetly without drawing attention, while sneak out suggests leaving secretly or furtively, often with the intention of avoiding detection.

Meanings and Definitions: slip out vs sneak out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Slip out

  • 1Leave discreetly.

    The party was really dull so we SLIPPED OUT and went to the pub instead.

Sneak out

  • 1Depart furtively.

    Although the thieves tried to SNEAK OUT after dark, we were ready for them.

Usage Examples: slip out, sneak out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

slip out

Example

I need to slip out of the meeting to make a phone call.

Example

She slips out of the room when no one is looking.

sneak out

Example

She always sneaks out of the office early on Fridays.

Example

He sneaks out of the house when his parents are asleep.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Slip out

To depart from a place without making noise or attracting attention.

Example

I didn't want to disturb anyone, so I decided to leave quietly and slip out the back door.

To leave a place, especially in a polite or inconspicuous manner.

Example

After saying goodbye to the host, I decided to make an exit and slip out before anyone noticed.

To leave a place quickly or suddenly.

Example

I had to take off and slip out of the meeting early to catch my flight.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sneak out

To leave a place quietly or secretly, often with the intention of avoiding detection.

Example

He decided to slip away and sneak out of the party before his ex-girlfriend arrived.

To leave a place quickly or secretly, often with the intention of escaping or avoiding something.

Example

When the security guard wasn't looking, he decided to make a run for it and sneak out of the building.

To leave a place without being seen or detected.

Example

She managed to slip out unnoticed and sneak out of the office early without her boss noticing.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “slip”

Phrasal Verbs with “sneak”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in slip out vs sneak out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: slip out or sneak out?

Both slip out and sneak out are commonly used in everyday conversation, but sneak out is slightly more common. This is because sneak out is often used in a wider range of contexts, such as sneaking out of a party or sneaking out of work early. Slip out is more commonly used when referring to leaving a place quietly without being noticed.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of slip out and sneak out

Both slip out and sneak out are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, sneak out may be perceived as slightly less formal due to its association with secretive or mischievous behavior.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of slip out and sneak out

The tone of slip out and sneak out can differ based on context. Slip out often carries a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to leaving a social gathering politely. In contrast, sneak out can carry a negative or suspicious tone, especially when referring to leaving a place without permission or without saying goodbye.

slip out & sneak out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Slip out

Synonyms

  • sneak out
  • leave quietly
  • depart discreetly
  • exit stealthily
  • creep out
  • steal away

Antonyms

Sneak out

Synonyms

  • slip out
  • creep out
  • steal away
  • slink out
  • sneak away
  • depart secretly

Antonyms

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