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Region: General | Usage example: That detail slipped through the cracks.

Slip through the cracks

Meaning

Be overlooked or forgotten.

Usage

Used when errors occur unintentionally.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Falling into cracks between boards.

Used in administrative contexts since the 20th century.

Related Idioms

Fall through the cracks

Be overlooked or forgotten by a system.

Jump through hoops

Do complicated or unnecessary tasks to achieve something.

Pay through the nose

Pay a very high price.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.