slack

[slæk]

slack Definition

  • 1not taut or held tightly in position; loose
  • 2showing a lack of effort, care, or involvement
  • 3a period of time when something is not busy and there is no particular rush to do anything

Using slack: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "slack" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The rope was slack and needed to be tightened.

  • Example

    He was criticized for his slack performance at work.

  • Example

    During the summer, business is usually slack.

  • Example

    She took up slack in the rope before tying it off.

  • Example

    The company is experiencing a slack period due to the pandemic.

slack Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with slack

  • to be less critical of someone; to give someone a break

    Example

    I know he's been slacking off lately, but let's cut him some slack since he's going through a tough time.

  • to do the work that someone else has failed to do

    Example

    I had to pick up the slack after my coworker called in sick.

  • to do what is necessary to make up for a deficiency or shortage

    Example

    We need to take up the slack in production to meet our targets for the quarter.

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Summary: slack in Brief

The term 'slack' [slæk] can be used as an adjective, verb, or noun. As an adjective, it refers to something that is not taut or held tightly in position, or showing a lack of effort, care, or involvement. As a verb, it means to take up or remove the slack in something. As a noun, it refers to a period of time when there is no particular rush to do anything. Common phrases include 'cut someone some slack,' meaning to be less critical of someone, 'pick up the slack,' meaning to do the work that someone else has failed to do, and 'take up the slack,' meaning to do what is necessary to make up for a deficiency or shortage.

How do native speakers use this expression?