[give] {sb} the slip
1
to escape in order to not get caught or not to be with someone
The origin of the idiom "give someone the slip" can be traced back to at least the 16th century. The term "slip" in this context refers to the act of slipping away, evading, or eluding someone's pursuit. The phrase likely emerged from the world of thieves and pickpockets, where the ability to escape from pursuers was highly valued. It is often used in informal conversations, storytelling, and even in descriptions of clever strategies used in sports or competitive situations.
- He often gives his younger sister the slip when she tries to tag him during their game.
- They give their pursuers the slip by quickly changing directions and blending into the crowd.
- She frequently gives her nosy neighbors the slip by taking alternative routes when leaving her house.
- After a daring maneuver, he gave the security guards the slip and escaped from the building.
- They gave the paparazzi the slip by using a secret exit to leave the event unnoticed.