What are the definitions of “slag off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Criticise heavily.
The concert was terrible and all the papers SLAGGED the band OFF.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “slag off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb slag off is to criticize someone or something heavily, often in a harsh or unkind manner. It is used to express strong disapproval or negative opinions about someone or something.
What are the different verb forms of “slag off”?
| Root Verb | slag off |
| Third Person Singular Present | slags off |
| Present Participle | slagging off |
| Simple Past | slagged off |
| Past Participle | slagged off |
Example
People should not slag off others without knowing the full story.
Example
He always slags off his coworkers behind their backs.
Example
She is always slagging off her classmates for their fashion choices.
Example
They slagged off the restaurant's food after a disappointing meal.
Example
The movie was slagged off by critics for its poor plot and acting.
What kind of phrasal verb is “slag 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
“slag 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
She slagged off her friend's new haircut.
Example
The critics slagged the movie off for its lack of originality.
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
“slag 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 slagged off her friend's new haircut.
Example
The critics slagged the movie off for its lack of originality.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “slag off”?
Good things to know
Does “slag off” have an informal or formal tone?
Slag off is considered informal and is typically used in casual conversations or informal writing. It is not appropriate for formal settings or professional communication. In more formal contexts, use synonyms like 'criticize' or 'disapprove' instead.
