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tap on

A2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To touch something lightly a few times — like knocking gently on a door or touching your card on a bus reader.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To lightly and quickly touch a surface or object, usually with a finger, to attract attention or produce a sound.

"She tapped on the window to get the children's attention."

Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral

To check in to a public transport system by touching a payment card or device on a reader.

"You need to tap on with your card before the bus doors close."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

The physical sense is very basic and common. The transit sense is used in countries with contactless payment systems. Both senses involve a light contact with a surface. 'Tap on the shoulder' is a classic idiom for getting someone's attention.

Commonly used with

shoulder window door screen card reader bus

Forms

Base
tap on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
taps on
he/she/it
Past simple
taped on
yesterday
Past participle
taped on
have + pp
-ing form
taping on
continuous

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