What are the definitions of “slack off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Reduce one's effort, perform with less enthusiasm and energy.
Students usually begin the term well, then SLACK OFF near the end of the semester.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “slack off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb slack off is to reduce one's effort or perform with less enthusiasm and energy. It often refers to someone not working as hard as they should or could be.
What are the different verb forms of “slack off”?
| Root Verb | slack off |
| Third Person Singular Present | slacks off |
| Present Participle | slacking off |
| Simple Past | slacked off |
| Past Participle | slacked off |
Example
I need to stop slacking off and start studying for my exams.
Example
He always slacks off when the boss is not around.
Example
She is slacking off at work today because she is tired.
Example
They slacked off during the last week of the project.
Example
I have slacked off too much this semester and now I need to catch up.
What kind of phrasal verb is “slack 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
“slack 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
She slacked off during the last week of the project.
Example
He slacked off when the boss was not around.
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
“slack 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
She slacked off during the last week of the project.
Example
He slacked off when the boss was not around.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “slack off”?
Good things to know
Does “slack off” have an informal or formal tone?
Slack off is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. Instead, more formal alternatives like 'reduce effort' or 'perform with less enthusiasm' can be used.
