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

Industry executives say they are hopeful exits will recover in the second half of the year and point to a rebound in initial public offerings, a small but important exit strategy for the industry.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

But in unprompted remarks, he said the United States and Iran are not engaging in talks because their leaders “are all gone,” adding to the uncertainty about the war’s exit strategy.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 20, 2026

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

From Barron's • Jan. 23, 2026

If Ferguson was trying to explain Kissinger’s Vietnam exit strategy, he did not succeed; if he was trying to confuse the issue, he did.

From Salon • Nov. 1, 2025

Adina surveyed the scene desperately, looking for a possible exit strategy.

From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray