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tapinha

[ta-PI-nya]
nounfemininepl: tapinhas
light tap, gentle pat, small slap
1. A soft or gentle blow, usually with the hand or fingers
He gave her a gentle tap on the shoulder.
Ele deu uma tapinha no ombro dela.
2. An affectionate or playful pat
The child gave the puppy a gentle pat.
A criança deu uma tapinha carinhosa no cachorro.
3. A small, insignificant blow or strike
That punch was just a light tap.
Aquele soco foi apenas uma tapinha.
NYC Slang
light tap, pat, bop
Synonyms
pancada levepalmadabatidinhatapa leve
Antonyms
pancada fortegolpe violento

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
tapinha
Common and widely used term for a light tap or pat
Rio de Janeiro
tapinha
Frequently used in casual and affectionate contexts
São Paulo
tapinha
Standard usage, often diminutive form suggesting tenderness
Portugal
pancadita, palmada leve
Less commonly used; Portuguese prefer other terms

Related Idioms & Phrases

dar uma tapinha nas costas (to give someone a pat on the back, to encourage)
levar uma tapinha (to receive a light punishment or criticism)
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