slip - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
slip Word Meanings
- to slide unintentionally
- a small mistake
- a piece of paper with information
slip Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
slip Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/slɪp/
US
/slɪp/
slip Word Etymology
Slip: (slip) + (verb); from Old Norse 'slipa' meaning 'to glide'. Imagine a person slipping on ice and gliding effortlessly before falling.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place my hand on the page and move it a notch to the left, then shift my wrist to keep it flat. The page slips in my grip and I pull back, feeling the effort as I adjust. I tell myself to slow down and keep control. A small slip of paper slides out of the notebook with a piece of information, and I place it back, calm and ready to go.
Real Context
Slip has three core senses in English: as a verb meaning to slide unintentionally, as a noun meaning a small mistake or error, and as a noun meaning a slip of paper that carries information. You can slip on ice, slip into a conversation, or slip up on a test. A slip of paper can be a memo, a receipt, or a note with information. Common phrases include slip away, slip up, and slip of the tongue. The etymology traces to Old Norse 'slipa', meaning 'to glide', which helps memory by picturing a glide before a fall. English uses slide to emphasize deliberate movement, while slip stresses an accident, error, or a fleeting written note.
Usage Reminders
- Use slip for unintentional movement or a small error. Distinguish slip from slide. Refer to a slip of paper when mentioning a note. Include phrasal verbs: slip away, slip up. For speech errors, say slip of the tongue. Treat paper-notes as informal records rather than formal documents.
Common Misconceptions
- Slip always means a fall; it can also mean a minor mistake or a note.
- Slip and slide are interchangeable; slide usually implies control and intentional movement.
- A slip of paper is always formal; it can be an informal note too.
- Slip cannot describe speech errors; use slip of the tongue for that.
- ‘Slip up’ is the only phrasal form; other forms like slip away exist too.
Thinking Differences
English frames slip as either a glide that ends badly (fall) or a minor error, with strong collocations like slip up. Learners often confuse slip with slide or misapply slip to language errors without ‘of the tongue’.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three main senses (move, error, paper) with separate examples.
- Practice with key collocations: slip up, slip away, slip of the tongue.
- Distinguish slip from slide by focusing on intent and outcome.
- Use 'slip of a paper' context to remember written notes.
- Create mental imagery of slipping on ice to recall the feel of the word.
- Label examples with color-coded cards (verb, noun, paper) for recall.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'slip'?
A.To fall down accidentally
B.To stand still
C.To run quickly
D.To jump high
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'slip' used correctly?
A.He slipped and won the race.
B.She slipped and broke her arm.
C.She slipped and stood up.
D.He slipped and danced.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'slip'?
A.Trip
B.Fly
C.Walk
D.Laugh
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'slip'?
A.Grip
B.Roll
C.Slide
D.Tumble
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would you most likely use the word 'slip'?
A.Cooking a meal
B.Walking on a slippery floor
C.Dancing on stage
D.Playing video games
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