Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: Skive / Skiving (Verb)

Quick summary: An informal UK word for avoiding work or school without a good reason.

What does it mean?

To skive means to avoid work or school by pretending to be ill or simply not showing up. A person who does this is called a skiver.

Is it positive or negative?

It is negative, implying laziness or dishonesty.

When do you use it?

Use it in everyday conversation when the situation matches the meaning.

Examples

Example 1: He decided to skive off work to go to the beach because it was a sunny day.

Question for you

Have you heard or used 'skive' in real conversation?

Are you looking for English speaking practice online?

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