The idiom “(as) slippery as an eel” is a colorful way to describe someone who is elusive, untrustworthy, or difficult to pin down. This expression vividly captures the image of an eel’s slick, slippery nature, making it a perfect metaphor for devious or undependable behavior.
Meaning of “(as) slippery as an eel“
The phrase refers to a person who is:
- Evasive: Hard to catch or confront, often avoiding responsibility or difficult questions.
- Devious: Known for being untrustworthy or dishonest.
Examples:
“Trying to get a straight answer from him is impossible; he’s as slippery as an eel.“
“The suspect escaped custody again—he’s truly slippery as an eel.“
Examples of ”(as) slippery as an eel” in sentences
“Tom can’t be trusted; he’s slippery as an eel when it comes to keeping promises.”
“Negotiating with her was frustrating—she was as slippery as an eel and kept changing her terms.”
“It’s hard to get hold of Joe; he’s slippery as an eel and always on the move.”
Synonyms for “(as) slippery as an eel“
Here are some alternative expressions with similar meanings:
- As cunning as a fox
- As sly as a cat
- Hard to pin down
- Like trying to catch smoke
- As elusive as a shadow
How to use “(as) slippery as an eel“
In everyday conversations
“The politician dodged every question; he’s slippery as an eel.“
“You can never be sure with Mark; he’s as slippery as an eel when it comes to telling the truth.”
In writing or storytelling
“The thief was slippery as an eel, evading the authorities at every turn.”
“Her devious tactics in the boardroom earned her a reputation as slippery as an eel.“
