exit strategy

American  

[eg-zit strat-i-jee, ek-sit] / ˈɛg zɪt ˌstræt ɪ dʒi, ˈɛk sɪt /

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.

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exit strategy British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of exit strategy

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Key to the Nordic model, now implemented in Sweden, Iceland, Norway, Northern Ireland, Canada, France, Ireland and Israel, is creating an exit strategy for prostituted people.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

The former defense department official who spoke with me expressed grave doubt about an exit strategy and listed “three main concerns.”

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2026

They would pay substantial fees, have no liquidity, and no apparent exit strategy.

From Barron's • Jan. 23, 2026

"It's all about having an exit strategy," Dr Al-Zubaidi explains.

From BBC • Dec. 20, 2025

In life, one should always have an exit strategy for any given situation.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman