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.

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of exit strategy

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

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

A highly-anticipated boom for initial public offerings offers an exit strategy for private-equity firms.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 28, 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

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

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman