1 B2 idiomatic informal
To make or assemble something quickly and without care, resulting in a low-quality product.
"The documentary looked like it had been slapped together in a weekend."
separable
slap together
B2 informal separable transitive
To make or assemble something quickly and carelessly, with little attention to quality.
In plain English
To make something very fast without caring much about how good it looks or works.
What does "slap together" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic informal
To prepare a simple meal quickly and informally.
"I can slap together some sandwiches if you're hungry."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To slap (strike together carelessly) separate parts into one — implying rough, hasty assembly.
Actually means
To make something very fast without caring much about how good it looks or works.
Usage tip
Usually carries negative connotations — the result is seen as cheap, rushed, or shoddy. Common in criticism of creative works, construction, or plans. Also occasionally used humorously or affectionately for improvised cooking.
Words that pair with "slap together"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
meal presentation report shelter website plan
How to conjugate "slap together"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
slap together
I/you/we/they
3rd person
slaps together
he/she/it
Past simple
slaped together
yesterday
Past participle
slaped together
have + pp
-ing form
slaping together
continuous
Hear "slap together" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "slap together" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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