Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English

Pull a Sickie

What does it mean?

Quick summary: A common British phrase meaning pretend to be ill so you can miss work or school.

To pull a sickie means to claim you are ill even though you are not, usually to avoid work, school, or another obligation.

REAL WORDS.
REAL ENGLISH.
Native UK character with a collection of useful English phrases

Is it positive or negative?

It is negative because it suggests dishonesty.

When do you use it?

Use it when talking about work culture, excuses, or joking about staying at home instead of going in.

Examples

Example 1: He pulled a sickie on Monday after the wedding.

Example 2: I have never pulled a sickie, but I have definitely been tempted.

NOW MAKE IT YOURS

Question for you

Why do you think people are most tempted to pull a sickie?

Try saying your answer aloud, using the expression.

Practise it in a lesson

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