slack off
B1 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To stop trying as hard as you should — to be lazy about your work or duties.
Literal meaning: To let something become slack (loose, not pulled tight) — metaphorically letting one's effort loosen.
Meanings
1 B1
idiomatic
informal
To work less hard than expected or required; to become lazy or lose motivation.
"You've really been slacking off this semester — your grades are dropping."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To become less intense or busy (of an activity or situation).
"Business always slacks off during the summer holidays."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Very common in both British and American English. Used in workplaces, schools, and sports contexts. Carries a mildly negative or disapproving tone. 'Slacker' is the related noun for a person who regularly slacks off.
Commonly used with
work training studies lately always job
Forms
Base
slack off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
slacks off
he/she/it
Past simple
slacked off
yesterday
Past participle
slacked off
have + pp
-ing form
slacking off
continuous
Understand "slack off" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "slack off" on Looplines