exit stage left
Originating from theater, "exit stage left" has evolved into a common idiom for a discreet or graceful departure.
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Definition
C1Theater
(technical, direction)A directive for an actor to leave the stage by moving to the left side from the audience's perspective.
B2Everyday Language
(idiomatic)To leave a situation quietly and without drawing attention.
Example
- After the heated argument, he decided to exit stage left to avoid further conflict.
- Not wanting to be the center of attention, she exited stage left before the speeches began.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "exit stage left":
stage leftexit bagstage rightexit programon the way outwalk outescape routeway outgo lefton its way outwalk offstep asidestep offescape hatchback outset the stageget outto the leftstep outcenter stageget out of hereleave overwalk awaywalk away fromfinal curtainexit interviewtake one's leavehold the stage