exit strategy

[ eg-zit strat-i-jee, ek-sit ]

noun

1. a plan for getting out of a difficult or unfavorable situation:

   committing troops without an exit strategy.

2. a plan that maximizes profits when liquidating investments or a business.

exit strategy

noun

1. a method or plan for extricating oneself from an undesirable situation
2. a plan and timetable for withdrawal from a military engagement
3. the method by which an investor intends to cash out of an investment

Word History and Origins

Origin of exit strategy¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

He called the hearing Wednesday to decide an exit strategy for the leaseholders and to select which parcels would be used for housing.

From Los Angeles Times

The ruling did not specify what should happen to the leases the VA has with UCLA, Brentwood School and others but said the “court will determine an exit strategy” after more hearings.

From Los Angeles Times

By the time Schulz found an exit strategy—for both the job and that relationship—she was exhausted and irritable.

From Slate

The need for such operations has prompted Israeli critics to say the government has failed to articulate an exit strategy, even as the death toll among Israeli soldiers continues to rise.

From Seattle Times

I’m trying to create an exit strategy for Bryce Miller.”

From Seattle Times