What are the definitions of “tap out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Play a rhythm quietly.
He TAPPED OUT the tune with his pencil while he was thinking.
- 2Use all the money available.
How can we buy a new house without TAPPING OUT our savings account.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tap out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tap out is to play a rhythm quietly, usually using fingers or a small object. For example, it can mean tapping a tune on a table or tapping a beat on a desk.
What are the different verb forms of “tap out”?
| Root Verb | tap out |
| Third Person Singular Present | taps out |
| Present Participle | tapping out |
| Simple Past | tapped out |
| Past Participle | tapped out |
Example
She likes to tap out a rhythm when she's thinking.
Example
He taps out a beat on the table while waiting for his food.
Example
She is tapping out a melody on the piano.
Example
Yesterday, he tapped out a tune on his desk during class.
Example
The rhythm was tapped out on the table during the meeting.
What kind of phrasal verb is “tap out”?
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 out” 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
She tapped out a rhythm on the table.
Example
He tapped out a tune on his desk.
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 out” 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
She tapped out a rhythm on the table.
Example
He tapped out a tune on his desk.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tap out”?
Good things to know
Does “tap out” have an informal or formal tone?
Tap out is generally considered informal and is used in everyday conversations. It is more commonly used in casual contexts, such as discussing music or hobbies. In more formal settings, alternative phrases like 'play quietly' or 'use up' may be more appropriate.
