What are the definitions of “nip off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Go somewhere quickly.
I'm NIPPING OFF to get some milk.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “nip off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb nip off is to go somewhere quickly, usually for a short period of time. It is often used when someone needs to run a quick errand or do something briefly.
What are the different verb forms of “nip off”?
| Root Verb | nip off |
| Third Person Singular Present | nips off |
| Present Participle | nipping off |
| Simple Past | nipped off |
| Past Participle | nipped off |
Example
I need to nip off to the store for some groceries.
Example
She nips off to the post office during her lunch break.
Example
He is nipping off to grab a coffee before the meeting starts.
Example
Yesterday, they nipped off to the pharmacy to pick up a prescription.
Example
He had nipped off to the restroom before the movie began.
What kind of phrasal verb is “nip 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.)
Intransitive verb
“nip off” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
I nipped off to the store for a moment.
Example
She nipped off to the bank during her break.
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
“nip 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
I nipped off to the store for a moment.
Example
She nipped off to the bank during her break.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “nip off”?
Good things to know
Does “nip off” have an informal or formal tone?
Nip off is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal settings or written communication. In more formal situations, alternatives such as 'go quickly' or 'step out briefly' can be used.
