What are the definitions of “flip off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Extend your middle finger as a gesture of contempt.
When the police were walking away, he FLIPPED them OFF.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “flip off”?
The phrasal verb flip off has a specific meaning. It is used to describe the gesture of extending your middle finger as an expression of contempt, rudeness, or defiance.
What are the different verb forms of “flip off”?
| Root Verb | flip off |
| Third Person Singular Present | flips off |
| Present Participle | flipping off |
| Simple Past | flipped off |
| Past Participle | flipped off |
Example
She was so angry that she flipped off the driver who cut her off.
Example
He often flips off other drivers when he's frustrated.
Example
They were caught flipping off the camera during the live broadcast.
Example
Yesterday, a cyclist flipped off a motorist who honked aggressively.
Example
She regretted that she had flipped off her neighbor in a moment of anger.
What kind of phrasal verb is “flip off”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“flip off” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
He flipped off the aggressive driver who cut in front of him.
Example
She flipped off her friend playfully as a joke.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“flip off” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He flipped off the aggressive driver who cut in front of him.
Example
She flipped off her friend playfully as a joke.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “flip off”?
Good things to know
Does “flip off” have an informal or formal tone?
The phrasal verb flip off is highly informal and can be considered offensive or inappropriate in many situations. It's important to exercise caution when using this expression, as it may lead to misunderstandings or create a negative impression. It's best to avoid using this phrase in professional or polite settings.
