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

Each mission plan includes contingencies for a rescue that are agreed in advance of a flight by the aviator and home base, so the pilot is both evading the enemy and executing an exit strategy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 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

He tore off his seat belt and moved to the back seat, away from the smoke, scanning the car desperately for an exit strategy.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 24, 2025

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

From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray