# nip out

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nip-out
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to go out for a short time, usually to do a quick task or buy something.

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I will nip out the office for a minute." but "I will nip out of the office for a minute." — When mentioning the place you are leaving, the preposition 'of' is required after 'out'.

## Usage notes

- 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).

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.