a surface that lies at an angle to the horizontal so that some points on it are higher than others, the degree to which a surface is inclined; the gradient, a downward or upward inclination or slant, especially of a line

get the slope, on the slope, slippery as a greased pig on a slope

slippery slope, downward slope, upward slope

Formal and Informal Expressions of slope

In different contexts, you can replace 'slope' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'gradient, inclination' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'slant, angle' is a commonplace synonym.

slope: Explore its Definition & Usage

slope Definition

1a surface that lies at an angle to the horizontal so that some points on it are higher than others
2the degree to which a surface is inclined; the gradient
3a downward or upward inclination or slant, especially of a line

Using slope: Examples

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

Example
The slope of the hill was too steep for me to climb.
Example
The roof has a gentle slope to allow rainwater to drain off.
Example
The ski slope was very challenging.
Example
The graph shows a positive slope.

slope Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for slope

Antonyms for slope

Idioms Using slope

get the slope
to leave quickly or abruptly
Example
I think it's time to get the slope before the party gets too wild.
on the slope
in the process of declining or deteriorating
Example
The company is on the slope and needs to make some changes to turn things around.
slippery as a greased pig on a slope
very difficult to hold onto or control
Example
The new employee is as slippery as a greased pig on a slope, always avoiding responsibility.

Phrases with slope

slippery slope
a course of action that seems to lead inevitably from one action or result to another with unintended consequences
Example
Some people believe that legalizing marijuana is a slippery slope that will lead to the legalization of other drugs.
downward slope
a decline or decrease in quantity, quality, or value
Example
The company's profits have been on a downward slope for the past year.
upward slope
an increase or improvement in quantity, quality, or value
Example
The economy has been on an upward slope since the new government took office.

Origins of slope

from Old English 'slop', meaning 'slippery ground'

📌

Summary: slope in Brief

The term 'slope' [sloʊp] refers to a surface that is inclined or slanted, with varying degrees of steepness. It can describe physical surfaces like hills or roofs, as well as mathematical concepts like gradients. Phrases like 'slippery slope' denote unintended consequences, while idioms like 'get the slope' mean leaving quickly. 'Slope' can also be used to describe a decline or increase in quantity, quality, or value.