difficult to hold, move, or stand on because it is smooth, wet, or slimy, not to be trusted; devious

Formal and Informal Expressions of slippery

In different contexts, you can replace 'slippery' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'devious, treacherous' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'shady, sketchy' is a commonplace synonym.

slippery: Explore its Definition & Usage

slippery Definition

1difficult to hold, move, or stand on because it is smooth, wet, or slimy
2not to be trusted; devious

Using slippery: Examples

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

Example
The roads were slippery after the rain.
Example
The soap made the floor very slippery.
Example
He's a slippery character and can't be trusted.
Example
The politician gave a slippery answer to the question.
Example
The fish was so slippery that I couldn't hold onto it.

slippery Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for slippery

Antonyms for slippery

Phrases with slippery

a slippery slope
a course of action that seems to lead inevitably from one action or result to another with unintended consequences
Example
Allowing people to carry guns in public places is a slippery slope that could lead to more violence.
slippery customer
a person who is difficult to deal with or who cannot be trusted
Example
Watch out for him, he's a slippery customer.
slippery when wet
a warning sign indicating that a surface is likely to be slippery when it is wet
Example
The sign said 'Slippery When Wet', so we walked carefully.

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Summary: slippery in Brief

The term 'slippery' [ˈslɪpəri] describes something that is difficult to hold, move, or stand on due to being smooth, wet, or slimy. It can also refer to a person who is not to be trusted or is devious. Examples include 'The roads were slippery after the rain.' and 'He's a slippery character and can't be trusted.' Phrases like 'a slippery slope' indicate a course of action with unintended consequences.