What does the phrasal verb “tap for” mean?

What are the definitions of “tap for”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Get money off someone.

  I TAPPED him FOR a loan.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tap for”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tap for is to ask someone for money, usually as a loan. It means to request financial help from someone.

What are the different verb forms of “tap for”?

Root Verb	tap for
Third Person Singular Present	taps for
Present Participle	tapping for
Simple Past	tapped for
Past Participle	tapped for

Example

Can I tap you for a small loan?

Example

She taps her parents for money when she's short on cash.

Example

He is always tapping his friends for financial help.

Example

Last month, I tapped my brother for some money to pay my bills.

Example

She had tapped her friends for money several times before.

What kind of phrasal verb is “tap for”?

📝

Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“tap for” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

He tapped his friend for a loan.

Example

She tapped her parents for some extra cash.

📝

Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“tap for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

He tapped his friend for a loan.

Example

She tapped her parents for some extra cash.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tap for”?

Tap into

Access a resource or source of information.

Example

She tapped into her network to find a new job.

Tap on

Touch lightly, usually with a finger.

Example

He tapped on the window to get her attention.

Tap out

To give up or admit defeat, often used in sports.

Example

The wrestler tapped out when he couldn't escape the hold.

Good things to know

Does “tap for” have an informal or formal tone?

Tap for is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not suitable for formal settings or writing. In more formal contexts, you can use alternatives like 'request' or 'ask for financial assistance'.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “tap for”?

Synonyms

• request
• borrow
• seek
• ask for

Antonyms

• lend
• give
• provide
• offer