The phrasal verb "tip off" is predominantly used in informal contexts and carries a significant presence in colloquial speech. It is commonly used to convey the act of giving someone a piece of information, often confidentially, that serves as a warning or advance notice about something. This verb is typically employed in contexts relating to security, safety, sports, and espionage; for example, a tip-off about a police raid or a crucial play during a basketball game. While its primary role is in spoken language, it can also appear in written forms such as journalistic articles, especially those concerning breaking news or investigative reports where an insider has “tipped off” a journalist to uncover hidden truths. Additionally, "tip off" can sometimes carry a slightly conspiratorial or secretive connotation, especially when the information is not publicly known or is shared among a closed group.
B2
UpperIntermediate
1. To inform someone secretly or confidentially, especially to warn them about something.
The police were able to prevent the robbery because someone tipped them off.
He was tipped off about the surprise party, so he was not really surprised.
2. To give someone clues or information that may help them in a particular situation.
She tipped him off about the upcoming job opening before it was publicly announced.
If you tip off the company about the staff changes, it might win you some favor.