What are the definitions of “slip away”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Lose an opportunity or the chance of winning, succeeding, etc.
Their hopes of getting back into the game SLIPPED AWAY after the second goal.
- 2Pass quickly ( time ).
The year has SLIPPED AWAY and it is hard to believe it's over.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “slip away”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb slip away is to lose an opportunity or the chance of winning or succeeding. It can also mean that time passes quickly, and something is over before you realize it.
What are the different verb forms of “slip away”?
| Root Verb | slip away |
| Third Person Singular Present | slips away |
| Present Participle | slipping away |
| Simple Past | slipped away |
| Past Participle | slipped away |
Example
Their chances of winning the game slipped away after the second goal.
Example
Time slips away when you're having fun.
Example
The opportunity was slipping away as the deadline approached.
Example
The year slipped away before we knew it.
Example
The chance to win the competition had slipped away.
What kind of phrasal verb is “slip away”?
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
“slip away” 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
The opportunity slipped away before they could act.
Example
The time slipped away as they enjoyed the party.
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
“slip away” 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
The opportunity slipped away before they could act.
Example
The time slipped away as they enjoyed the party.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “slip away”?
Good things to know
Does “slip away” have an informal or formal tone?
Slip away is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
