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[0220] Slip my mind

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English Idioms
All Idioms

Explanation

  • An expression used when you unintentionally forget something, typically something you were supposed to remember or do.
  • Implies the forgetting was accidental, not deliberate.

Origin

  • Uses figurative language, comparing memory to something physical that can be held or grasped.
  • If something 'slips' from your grasp, you lose hold of it accidentally. Similarly, if a thought or task 'slips your mind,' it escapes your memory unintentionally.
  • This metaphorical use related to memory 'slipping' dates back centuries in English.

Synonyms & Related Expressions

  • I forgot (More direct)
  • I didn't remember
  • It escaped my memory (Slightly more formal)
  • I blanked / I drew a blank (Often refers to forgetting information momentarily)
  • Clean forgot (UK/Informal)
  • It went right out of my head

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

  • I spaced / I spaced it / I spaced out (Implies mind wandering led to forgetting)
  • I blanked / Totally blanked
  • Had a brain fart (Very informal, refers to a momentary mental lapse/forgetfulness)
  • Mind went blank

Vulgar/Emphatic (Expressing frustration at oneself for forgetting):

  • Fuck, I forgot! / Fuck, it slipped my mind!
  • Shit, I completely forgot about that.

Milder/Formal:

  • I neglected to remember
  • It escaped my notice/attention
  • I overlooked it
  • My apologies, I forgot / I failed to recall

Situational Appropriateness

  • Informal to semi-formal.
  • A common and generally acceptable excuse for minor lapses in memory in everyday life and most work environments.
  • Might sound insufficient or careless if used for forgetting very important responsibilities or deadlines repeatedly.

Misunderstanding Warnings

  • Generally clear.
  • Ensure non-native speakers understand it strongly implies *unintentional* forgetting, distinguishing it from deliberate neglect or disregard.

Examples

  • I meant to call you back yesterday, but it completely slipped my mind.
  • Oh no, I was supposed to pick up dry cleaning! It totally slipped my mind.
  • The appointment slipped my mind until I got the reminder text.

Dialogue

Chris: Hey, did you remember to bring the book I lent you?

Pat: Oh shoot! I'm so sorry, it completely slipped my mind this morning when I was rushing out. I'll bring it tomorrow for sure.

Chris: Ah okay, no worries. Tomorrow's fine.

Social Media Examples

  • Tweet: Was meaning to wish @Friend a happy birthday yesterday but it completely slipped my mind with everything going on! Hope you had a great day! 🎉
  • Email: Dear team, Apologies for missing the optional meeting this morning the time slipped my mind. Are there notes available?
  • Facebook Comment: Sorry I forgot to RSVP to the event! It slipped my mind. Can I still come?

Response Patterns

  • Usually understanding, especially for minor things: Oh, okay., It happens., No problem.
  • Mild frustration if the forgotten item was important: Well, that's annoying., Really? I needed that.
  • Sometimes a gentle reminder: Okay, just try to remember next time.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

  • The speaker usually offers an apology (Sorry, it slipped my mind) and often takes action immediately if possible (I'll call them right now to reschedule.).
  • The listener might accept the explanation or gently remind the speaker of the importance of the forgotten item.

Conversation Starter

  • No. An explanation or excuse for having forgotten something.

Intonation

  • Often said with mild regret, slight embarrassment, or as a simple explanation.
  • Stress usually falls on slipped and mind: It SLIPPED my MIND.
  • The tone is typically apologetic if the forgotten item caused inconvenience.

Generation Differences

  • Widely used and understood across all generations. Standard idiom.

Regional Variations

  • Common in all English-speaking regions.
I owe you one
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