TIPPED OFF Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "tipped off" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in informal English to describe a situation where someone provides information or warns others about a particular event, situation, or person. When a person is "tipped off," it means they have discreetly received knowledge or received a cue about something that was not widely known.
Typically, being "tipped off" implies that the information provided is secret, confidential, or unknown to most people involved. The phrase often suggests that the individual providing the tip possesses insider knowledge or has a reliable source. This can occur in various contexts, such as journalistic reporting, law enforcement, or everyday situations.
The term "tipped off" may originate from the act of discreetly conveying a secret to someone by leaning in close and whispering into their ear, mimicking the motion of someone tipping off a hat. Metaphorically, it suggests sharing the insight in a confidential manner, ensuring that it remains confidential and out of the public eye.
In summary, "tipped off" refers to the act of discreetly providing information or warning someone about a particular matter in a confidential or secretive manner. The phrase conveys the idea that the knowledge being shared is not widely known, giving the recipient an advantage or insight into the situation.
Common Misspellings for TIPPED OFF
Etymology of TIPPED OFF
The term "tipped off" originates from the practice of leaving a small gratuity or tip to notify someone about particular information or a planned event in advance. This phrase emerged in the early 20th century and is closely related to the noun "tip" as in a sum of money given to someone as a reward or incentive. The use of "tipped off" to mean giving advanced notice or warning likely derived from the idea of providing someone with a small gesture of appreciation or incentive to share important or confidential information. Over time, this phrase has been figuratively extended to various contexts beyond the original act of giving a tip, such as alerting someone about an imminent danger or revealing secret information.
