# slip away

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/slip-away
Updated: 2026-10-23

## Definition

to leave a place quietly or secretly so that people do not notice you; it can also mean that time or an opportunity is passing quickly.

For teachers: to depart stealthily or unobtrusively to avoid notice; figuratively, to pass or elapse rapidly (of time) or to decline (of life or opportunities).

## Examples

- We managed to slip away before the party ended.
- As the meeting dragged on, he looked for a chance to slip away and catch his train.
- The golden opportunity to secure the contract began to slip away as negotiations stalled over minor legal technicalities.

## Usage notes

- intransitive; it does not take a direct object.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'leave' to show the manner of departure; 'slip' implies a smooth, quiet, or unnoticed movement like a fish in water.

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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.