nounverb

le taper

type · knock · hit

C’est appuyer plusieurs fois ou frapper doucement sur quelque chose, comme un clavier ou une porte.

Definition & meaning

The verb taper is a versatile French word with several different meanings depending on the context:

To hit or strike: The most common meaning is to hit something or someone, usually with the hand or an object. It can refer to a physical blow or a rhythmic action.
To type: In a modern context, it is the standard word used for typing on a keyboard, whether on a computer, a typewriter, or a smartphone.
To tap or knock: It describes the action of making a sharp sound by striking a surface, such as tapping on a window or knocking on a door.
To borrow (slang): In informal speech, taper can mean to ask someone for money or a cigarette, often with the intention of not paying it back (e.g., taper un ami de dix euros).
To catch the eye: The idiomatic expression taper dans l'œil means to catch someone's eye or to greatly please/attract someone.

Grammar & Word origin

Grammar: Taper is a regular verb of the first group, ending in -er. It follows the standard conjugation patterns for verbs in this category. Its past participle is tapé and its present participle is tapant.

Word origin: The word is believed to have an onomatopoeic origin, mimicking the sound made when hitting a surface ("tap"). It appeared in Middle French around the 14th century. It shares a common Germanic root with the English word "tap."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

To strike: frapper, cogner, battre.
To type: dactylographier, saisir.
To borrow (informal): soutirer, emprunter.

Antonyms:

Regarding the physical action: caresser (to stroke/pet), effleurer (to touch lightly).
Regarding money: rendre (to give back), rembourser (to reimburse).