What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
skid
Example
The car skidded on the icy road and crashed into a tree. [skidded: past tense]
Example
The skateboarder lost control and skidded across the pavement. [skidded: verb]
slip
Example
I slipped on the wet floor and fell down. [slipped: past tense]
Example
The ballerina slipped into a perfect pirouette. [slipped: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Slip is more commonly used than skid in everyday language. Slip is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while skid is less common and often used in specific situations, such as describing vehicle accidents.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between skid and slip?
Both skid and slip are relatively informal words and can be used in casual conversations or writing. However, skid may be more technical and formal when used to describe vehicle or machine accidents.