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Slap

Cartoon by Gymglish

Don’t confuse “slap” with:

Clap: To applaud. Do this to show support, appreciation, or call a servant into your chambers.

Snap: To make a sound with your thumb and finger; it’s what separates humans from apes.

Spank: To strike the bum (as punishment). Gymglish was very naughty and needs a spanking please.

Definitions

To slap (sbdy): to strike with an open hand, usually in the face.

A slap in the face (figurative): a grave insult; a shocking event.

A slap on the wrist (figurative): a light punishment or penalty.

Slaps in the news

This month, French president Emmanuel Macron was slapped in the face during a public appearance.

Though the perpetrator will only receive a slap on the wrist, it was a slap in the face for decorum.

Reasons for slapping

More hygienic than kissing: Guys, we still need to be careful. Covid isn't fully behind us yet.

Express political disapproval: The old-fashioned way to politely disagree, before Facebook and Twitter.
Cartoon by Gymglish

Definitions

To slap (sbdy): to strike with an open hand, usually in the face.

A slap in the face (figurative): a grave insult; a shocking event.

A slap on the wrist (figurative): a light punishment or penalty.

Slaps in the news

This month, French president Emmanuel Macron was slapped in the face during a public appearance.

Though the perpetrator will only receive a slap on the wrist, it was a slap in the face for decorum.

Don’t confuse “slap” with:

Clap: To applaud. Do this to show support, appreciation, or call a servant into your chambers.

Snap: To make a sound with your thumb and finger; it’s what separates humans from apes.

Spank: To strike the bum (as punishment). Gymglish was very naughty and needs a spanking please.

Reasons for slapping

More hygienic than kissing: Guys, we still need to be careful. Covid isn't fully behind us yet.

Express political disapproval: The old-fashioned way to politely disagree, before Facebook and Twitter.

The Word of the Month is created by Gymglish, in partnership with Le Monde.
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