What are the definitions of “slip by”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Pass quickly ( time ).
The years SLIP BY as you get older.
- 2Lose an opportunity or the chance of winning, succeeding, etc.
He didn't follow the offer up and let it SLIP BY.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “slip by”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb slip by is to pass quickly, especially when talking about time. It is often used to describe how time seems to go faster as we get older or when we are busy.
What are the different verb forms of “slip by”?
| Root Verb | slip by |
| Third Person Singular Present | slips by |
| Present Participle | slipping by |
| Simple Past | slipped by |
| Past Participle | slipped by |
Example
The days slip by so quickly when you're on vacation.
Example
Time slips by when you're having fun.
Example
The hours are slipping by as we work on this project.
Example
The deadline slipped by before we could finish the task.
Example
The opportunity slipped by before we could take advantage of it.
What kind of phrasal verb is “slip by”?
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 by” 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 summer slipped by quickly.
Example
The chance to apply for the job slipped by before I knew it.
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 by” 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 summer slipped by quickly.
Example
The chance to apply for the job slipped by before I knew it.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “slip by”?
Good things to know
Does “slip by” have an informal or formal tone?
Slip by 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 writing or presentations.
