flip off
B1 informal separable both
In simple words
To switch something off quickly, or to raise your middle finger at someone to show you are angry with them.
Literal meaning: To flip (turn over with a fast motion) something off — transparent for the switch sense.
Meanings
1 A2 informal
To turn off a switch, light, or device with a quick flipping motion.
"He flipped off the kitchen light and headed upstairs to bed."
Grammar: separable
2 B1
idiomatic
informal
To make an offensive hand gesture (raising the middle finger) at someone to show anger or disrespect.
"The other driver flipped him off after he cut into the lane."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
The rude gesture sense is specifically American English; the British equivalent is 'give the V sign'. The switch-off sense is neutral and common. Learners should be aware that 'flip off' can be offensive in the gesture sense.
Commonly used with
light switch driver crowd TV opponent
Forms
Base
flip off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
flips off
he/she/it
Past simple
fliped off
yesterday
Past participle
fliped off
have + pp
-ing form
fliping off
continuous
Understand "flip off" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "flip off" on Looplines