Phrasal verb
nip out
Definition
phrasal verb. to go out for a short time, usually to do a quick task or buy something.
phrasal verb. to leave a place briefly for a specific purpose, typically returning shortly. Marked as informal British English.
Examples
“I often nip out for a coffee during my lunch break.”
“If you're hungry, I can nip out to the bakery and grab some fresh bread for lunch.”
“While the meeting was on a short break, the assistant managed to nip out and secure a table at the nearby bistro for the directors.”
Examples
simple
“I often nip out for a coffee during my lunch break.”
contextual
“If you're hungry, I can nip out to the bakery and grab some fresh bread for lunch.”
complex
“While the meeting was on a short break, the assistant managed to nip out and secure a table at the nearby bistro for the directors.”
Usage
This phrase is typically followed by 'to' or 'for' to indicate the destination or purpose.
Teaching tip
This is a quintessentially British informal expression; contrast with 'pop out' (very similar) or 'go out' (more neutral and potentially longer duration).
Pitfall
I will nip out the office for a minute.
I will nip out of the office for a minute.
When mentioning the place you are leaving, the preposition 'of' is required after 'out'.
Phrasal verb
Particles
out
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
nip + out
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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