ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sally

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈsæɫi// UK //sˈæli// sal·ly Slang

n. a sudden attack where soldiers rush out from a hidden place to fight an enemy. It can also mean a short, energetic trip away from your usual routine.

n. a sudden charge out of a besieged place against an enemy; a sortie. In a figurative sense, it refers to a brief excursion or a witty retort.


SIMPLE

The soldiers made a brave sally into the enemy camp.

CONTEXTUAL

After weeks of staying indoors to study, she made a brief sally into the city to enjoy the sunshine.

COMPLEX

The general's desperate sally managed to break the blockade, though the cost in manpower was high enough to make the victory feel hollow.

Synonyms
Origin

A diminutive lambdacism of Sarah. Compare Hal from Harry and Moll from Mary.

Usage

Often used with the verb 'make' or 'lead'.

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