English vocabulary · C1
Slippage
/ˈslɪp.ɪdʒ/ · n.
Slippage is the amount by which a result falls behind what was planned. It shows how far the real result missed the goal.
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Example sentences
- The project showed slippage after two lost days.
- Costs rose when slippage slowed the work.
Word origin and roots
from Middle English
- slip — slide (from Middle English)
Synonyms and nuances
- DELAY — time lost (Late Timing)
- DECLINE — gradual drop (Lower Level)
- SHORTFALL — less than needed (Missing Amount)
Similar words
- delay
- decline
- shortfall
- loss
- drift
Lesson notes
Slippage is the amount by which a result falls behind what was planned. It shows how far the real result missed the goal.
Related: delay, decline, shortfall. Use slippage when results fall behind a plan.
The project showed slippage after two lost days. Costs rose when slippage slowed the work.
From Middle English. Slip- means slide. A deadline can slide past its plan. That gap is slippage.