The common phrase "give slip" is spelled /ɡɪv slɪp/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first part of the word, "give," is pronounced with a hard "g" sound followed by a short "i" sound and a "v" sound. The second part, "slip," is pronounced with a "s" sound, a short "l" sound, an "i" sound, and a "p" sound. Together, the phrase means to allow something or someone to escape or to let go of something intentionally.
The phrase "give slip" refers to the act of escaping or evading someone or something, often by clever or stealthy means. It is an idiomatic expression that typically describes the action of avoiding capture, detection, or confrontation. When someone "gives slip," they manage to elude or outwit those who are pursuing them. This phrase is commonly used to convey a sense of the individual's skill or cunning in evading pursuit.
The term originates from the concept of slipping away, where one's presence or grasp is swiftly and subtly removed. The term "give" suggests action on the part of the person escaping, as they are intentionally providing or allowing the opportunity to slip away.
This phrase can be used in various contexts. For example, a thief may give slip to the police during a high-speed chase by taking several sharp turns and losing them in a maze of streets. Similarly, a spy may give slip to enemy agents by employing disguises or changing identities. In a more figurative sense, someone may metaphorically give slip to their responsibilities by avoiding or neglecting them.
Overall, the term "give slip" describes the act of skillfully and successfully avoiding or escaping from someone or something that is pursuing or searching for them.
The phrase "give slip" has its origins in Middle English and its etymology can be traced back to Old English and Old Norse.
The word "give" in this context comes from the Old English verb "giefan", which means to grant or bestow something upon someone. Over time, it developed into the modern English word "give", retaining the same meaning.
The word "slip" originated from Old Norse, where "slippa" meant to escape. In Middle English, it evolved into "slippen" and eventually became "slip" in modern English. It refers to a sudden or unexpected escape or release from someone's control or grasp.
So, the combination of these two words, "give" and "slip", creates the phrase "give slip", which means to allow or unintentionally enable someone or something to escape or get away.