What does the phrasal verb “nip out” mean?

What are the definitions of “nip out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Go somewhere quickly.

  She'll be back in a minute- she's just NIPPED OUT to the shops.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “nip out”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb nip out is to go somewhere quickly, usually for a short period of time. It often implies that the person will return soon.

What are the different verb forms of “nip out”?

Root Verb	nip out
Third Person Singular Present	nips out
Present Participle	nipping out
Simple Past	nipped out
Past Participle	nipped out

Example

I need to nip out to the store for some milk.

Example

She nips out to the post office during her lunch break.

Example

He is nipping out to grab a coffee.

Example

Yesterday, they nipped out to buy some snacks.

Example

He had nipped out to the pharmacy before we arrived.

What kind of phrasal verb is “nip out”?

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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 out” 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 out to the store.

Example

She nipped out for a quick walk.

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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 out” 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 out to the store.

Example

She nipped out for a quick walk.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “nip out”?

Nip out for a break

To go outside or away from a place for a short break, often to get some fresh air or to take a break from work.

Example

I'm going to nip out for a break and stretch my legs.

Nip out to the shops

To go to the shops quickly, usually to buy a few items.

Example

I need to nip out to the shops to get some bread.

Nip out for a coffee

To go to a café or coffee shop quickly, usually to buy a coffee to go.

Example

I'm going to nip out for a coffee before the meeting starts.

Good things to know

Does “nip out” have an informal or formal tone?

Nip out is an informal phrasal verb, commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal settings or written documents. Instead, more formal alternatives like 'go out briefly' or 'step out' can be used.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “nip out”?

Synonyms

• pop out
• step out
• go out briefly
• run out
• dash out
• head out quickly

Antonyms

• remain
• linger
• wait
• dwell
• rest
• stay in