clip it: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘clip it’ mean?

The idiom "clip it" means to cut or shorten something, typically in a quick and efficient manner.

Idiom Explorer

The Forceful Release

The idiom "clip it" is a commonly used expression in American English. It has various meanings and can be used in different contexts, depending on the situation. This idiom is often used in informal conversations and is relatively casual.

One meaning of the idiom "clip it" is to cut or trim something quickly and decisively. When someone says "clip it," they are generally referring to performing a task swiftly and efficiently. It can also be used metaphorically to mean removing unnecessary details.

Another meaning of the idiom "clip it" is to move at a fast pace or accelerate. When someone says "clip it," they are typically referring to speeding up their movement or increasing their pace. It can also describe driving or traveling at a fast speed.

Additionally, "clip it" can be used to urge or encourage someone to stop talking or put an end to a discussion or argument. In this context, "clip it" is a command or request to cease speaking or arguing. It is often used to dismiss further conversation or debate.

Furthermore, "clip it" can also be used as a slang term to describe the act of stealing or taking something without permission. This slang usage derives from the idea of snatching or grabbing something quickly and discreetly.

Securely clip and fasten the papers together.

Now, let's take a closer look at how "clip it" is related to four popular idiomatic expressions:

The first idiom related to "clip it" is "snip-snap." This expression is often used to describe quickly and efficiently completing a task or performing an action. When someone says "clip it" in conjunction with "snip-snap," they are emphasizing the speed and efficiency with which they are doing something. It adds a sense of urgency and determination to the action being performed.

The second idiom related to "clip it" is "clip someone's wings." This idiom is used to mean restricting someone's freedom or limiting their ability to act or do as they please. When someone clips someone's wings, they are curbing their freedom or restraining their actions. In relation to "clip it," this idiom emphasizes the idea of putting a stop to something or preventing further actions or discussions.

Another related idiom is "clamp down on." This expression means to impose strict measures or regulations to control or suppress a certain activity or behavior. When someone says "clip it" in relation to "clamp down on," they are highlighting the need to take swift and decisive actions to impose control or restrict certain actions. It conveys a sense of authority and the need for prompt action.

The fourth related idiom is "hook it." This expression is slang and means to leave or depart swiftly. When someone says "clip it" along with "hook it," they are emphasizing the urgency and speed with which they need to leave or go somewhere. It adds a sense of haste and quickness to the action being taken.

The idiom "clip it" encompasses various meanings and can be used in different contexts depending on the situation. It can mean to cut or trim something quickly, to move at a fast pace, to urge someone to stop talking, or even to describe the act of stealing. The idiom is versatile in its usage and reflects the dynamic nature of the English language. While we have uncovered the main meanings and applications of "clip it," there may still be undiscovered nuances or regional variations that could further enhance our understanding of this idiomatic expression.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "clip it" can be used in a sentence:

  1. "I need you to clip it." - This sentence is a straightforward instruction for someone to cut or trim something.
  2. "She can really clip it when she's mad." - In this sentence, the idiom is used to mean that the person mentioned can speak or retort sharply and quickly when angry.
  3. "They clipped it in the last minute to secure the victory." - In this example, the idiom is used to express the act of scoring or achieving something just in time or by a narrow margin.

More "Expression" idioms