The phrase "skip out on" means to avoid fulfilling a commitment or responsibility. The spelling of the word "skip" is /skɪp/, which follows the English orthography rules for the "sk" consonant cluster. The word "out" is spelled as /aʊt/, which is the phonetic representation for the diphthong sound found in "house". Meanwhile, the preposition "on" is spelled as /ɒn/, which represents the short "o" sound found in words such as "lot" and "not". Together, the spelling of "skip out on" represents the pronunciation of the phrase as /skɪp aʊt ɒn/.
The phrasal verb "skip out on" is commonly used in informal English and is defined as the act of intentionally avoiding or shirking a responsibility, obligation, or commitment. This expression is generally used to describe someone evading or neglecting their duties, typically in a dishonest or unreliable manner.
When an individual "skips out on" something, they are deliberately not fulfilling their end of a deal, agreement, or promise. This can manifest in various situations such as avoiding paying a bill, not attending a previously scheduled event, or failing to complete a task they had committed to. It implies a breach of trust or an unwillingness to follow through with one's responsibilities.
The phrase often carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of reliability, faithfulness, or integrity. It suggests that the person who "skips out on" something is choosing to prioritize their own convenience or personal gain over their obligations or commitments. Consequently, this behavior can lead to disappointment, frustration, or even legal consequences for the individual who has been left to bear the consequences of their actions.
Overall, "skip out on" encompasses the act of intentionally and dishonestly avoiding responsibilities or commitments, indicating a breach of trust or a lack of reliability.