slag off
B2 informal separable transitive
In simple words
To say nasty or mean things about someone, often when they are not there.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To speak about someone in a rude or unkind way, typically behind their back.
"She spent half the lunch break slagging off her manager to the other staff."
Grammar: separable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To harshly criticize a product, film, book, or idea.
"Critics have been slagging off the film since it was released last week."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Distinctly British English. Considered fairly rude. Common in everyday speech among young people. The word 'slag' on its own is a strong insult in British English, but 'slag off' has become a standard informal expression for harsh criticism.
Commonly used with
boss ex colleague celebrity film behind someone's back
Forms
Base
slag off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
slags off
he/she/it
Past simple
slaged off
yesterday
Past participle
slaged off
have + pp
-ing form
slaging off
continuous
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