The phrase "let slip" is commonly used in English to describe an accidental release of information or an action. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word "let" is pronounced /lɛt/, while the word "slip" is pronounced /slɪp/. The "t" and "s" sounds at the end of each word are pronounced distinctly, with the "t" sound created by pressing the tongue against the upper row of teeth, and the "s" sound made with a hissing sound created by pushing air through a small gap between the teeth.
The phrase "let slip" is an idiomatic expression that refers to involuntarily revealing or disclosing information or a secret that was supposed to be kept confidential or concealed. It signifies unintentionally allowing information to escape one's lips, often due to a momentary lapse in judgment or inattentiveness.
To "let slip" means to accidentally divulge information, usually in conversation, without intending to do so. The phrase carries connotations of the disclosure being inadvertent, suggesting that the person did not mean to reveal the details or the secret. It implies a lack of control or carelessness on the part of the individual letting the information escape.
"Let slip" can also be used to express an action of accidentally releasing or dropping something physical, such as an object or a piece of information, in a careless manner. This conveys a sense of loss of control or a failure to properly manage or retain the item or knowledge at hand.
The phrase can also be used figuratively, to describe the act of missing or failing to take advantage of an opportunity or a chance due to a momentary oversight or negligence. In this context, "let slip" denotes a failure to seize or capitalize on an advantageous situation, resulting in a missed opportunity.
The phrase "let slip" can be traced back to Middle English. Here is a breakdown of its etymology:
1. Let: The word "let" originates from Old English "lǣtan", which means "to allow" or "to permit". This verb has evolved over time but has generally retained its original meaning of allowing or permitting something.
2. Slip: The term "slip" comes from Middle English "slippen", derived from Old English "slīpan", meaning "to glide" or "to move smoothly". It refers to an accidental or unintentional action of losing control or allowing something to pass unintentionally.
The phrase "let slip" combines the meaning of "to allow" (let) with "to lose control" (slip). So, when someone "lets slip" something, they accidentally reveal or disclose information or allow something to go unnoticed or uncontrolled.