slap
Translation
to hit with an open hand, to strike sharply, to impose (a fine)
Examples
She slapped him across the face.
She slapped him across the face.
He slapped the book down on the table.
He slapped the book down on the table.
They slapped a new tax on cigarettes.
They slapped a new tax on cigarettes.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.)) to hit (sb.) with the palm of your hand. She slapped his face.
((sth.)) ((on/down/onto sth.)) to put (sth.) down with force. He slapped the money on the counter.
((sth.)) ((on sth.)) to impose (sth.) suddenly. They slapped a ban on the product.
Similar Words
Synonyms: smack, strike, hit.
Etymology
Onomatopoeic, imitating the sound of a flat blow.
Memory Tips
Imagine the sound 'SLAP!' as a hand hits a surface. This helps remember both the verb (to hit) and the noun (the hit itself).