slip through
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To get through something — like a rule or check — without being caught
Literal meaning: To slide through a gap or opening
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To pass through a system or set of controls without being caught or detected
"Several counterfeit bills slipped through the bank's screening process."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 neutral
To move through a narrow gap or space
"The cat slipped through the gap in the fence."
Grammar: inseparable
3 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To be overlooked or missed, especially in the phrase 'slip through the net/cracks'
"Children with mild learning disabilities often slip through the cracks in the education system."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Frequently appears in the fixed phrase 'slip through the net' or 'slip through the cracks' (American English). Used in journalism, politics, and law.
Commonly used with
net cracks fingers defenses loophole system
Forms
Base
slip through
I/you/we/they
3rd person
slips through
he/she/it
Past simple
sliped through
yesterday
Past participle
sliped through
have + pp
-ing form
sliping through
continuous
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Synonyms
fall through the cracks evade detection bypass go unnoticed escape avoid
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