What does slipping mean?
Slipping describes the process of sliding, losing control, or gradually declining. Literally, it can refer to a person or object moving unexpectedly, as in slipping on ice or a rope slipping from someone's hands. Figuratively, it often indicates that quality, performance, confidence, or reputation is becoming worse: a team may be slipping, standards may be slipping, or a business may be slipping in the market. The expression 'slipping standards' is especially common in discussion of education, safety, workmanship, and public conduct. Slipping can also mean making an error, as in 'the player was slipping tackles,' though that use may sound less natural in formal English than the sense of gradual decline. Overall, the word conveys movement away from control or improvement, often over time rather than through one sudden event.
Moving or sliding in a way that is difficult to control, or becoming progressively worse.
"The minister warned that the economy was slipping."
The figurative senses are common in formal and journalistic English.
The act of sliding, losing balance, or making a mistake; a mistake or failure.
"There were several costly slips in the report."
This noun is less common than the more established phrase 'a slip of the tongue' and similar expressions.
A slip can be a small mistake, but a slipping standard can turn into a serious fall.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slipping come from?
Slipping is the present participle of the verb slip, which comes from Old English slipan, meaning to move smoothly or slide. The verb developed the sense of losing hold or balance and, by extension, making a mistake or failing. The related adjective slippery and the noun slipper reflect the same basic idea of sliding or insecure footing.
Related word forms
How slipping is actually used
The word is commonly used in figurative expressions for a gradual decline. In phrases such as 'slipping standards' and 'slipping performance,' it is usually formal or journalistic rather than conversational.