What does “Skive” mean?
The slang phrase "skive" means to avoid work or school by making excuses or pretending to be sick. When someone "skives", they are purposely evading their responsibilities and finding ways to not fulfill their obligations. It is often used to describe someone who is attempting to skip work or school without being caught or reprimanded.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
He decided to skive work and spend the day at the beach.
Example
They were caught skiving off school to go to the arcade.
Example
Sometimes, a mental health day is needed to skive off work stress.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Avoiding work or school
He decided to skive work and spend the day at the beach.
They were caught skiving off school to go to the arcade.
- 2Taking a break or mental health day
Sometimes, a mental health day is needed to skive off work stress.
She decided to skive off school and take a day to relax.
- 3Making excuses to avoid responsibilities
He always finds a way to skive off his chores.
She pretended to be sick to skive off attending the meeting.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
"Skive" originated in British English and is commonly used in the UK. It is believed to have derived from the Romani word 'skiv', meaning 'knife'. The term was originally used to describe cutting leather or fabric with a knife, but its meaning evolved to refer to avoiding work or school.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
While "skive" is typically used in a sentence, it can also be used on its own to convey the act of avoiding responsibilities. For example, if someone asks why you're not at work, you could simply respond with "Skiving off" to indicate that you're avoiding work.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "skive" is not offensive in itself. It is a slang term used to describe avoiding work or school.
Audience for the phrase
"Skive" is commonly used in the UK and is more familiar to British English speakers. However, it can be understood by English speakers from other regions as well.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
"Skive" is primarily used in the UK and is less common in other English-speaking regions. It is considered a British slang term.
