exit stage left



exit stage left

1. noun A timely and inconspicuous exit or departure, done so as not to make a scene or attract attention to oneself. An allusion to stage directions in theater, indicating when (and where) an actor should leave the stage from a scene. When the rally was interrupted by protesters, the senatorial candidate made a quick exit stage left to avoid undue media attention.
2. verb To leave in a timely and inconspicuous manner, so as not to make a scene or attract attention to oneself. (Sometimes used as an imperative.) The CEO decided to exit stage left from the company before his embezzlements became too noticeable. I suggest you exit stage left before I lose my temper.
See also: exit, left, stage

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Allen['ælən]
Battistabaht-TEE-stahItalian
Connie['kɔni]
Kondwanikon-DWAH-neeSouthern African, Chewa
Mckinney[mə'kini:]
George[dʒɔ:dʒ]