klap
Rare/ObscureInformal, slang (especially in South African English), archaic in British English.
Definition
Meaning
A sharp blow or slap, often with an open hand.
To strike someone or something sharply; to hit. In some contexts, can also mean to succeed brilliantly or to be excellent.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
"Klap" exists in English primarily as a loanword or in specific dialects. In standard British/American English, it is either obsolete or unrecognized. It holds more currency in South African English (from Afrikaans) meaning 'slap' or 'hit'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is virtually absent from contemporary standard British and American English. Historical British texts may show 'klap' as an obsolete variant of 'clap' (to strike). No established use in mainstream American English.
Connotations
In contexts where it is used (e.g., South African English), it connotes a physical strike, often informal or aggressive. In historical British use, it was a neutral term for a blow.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both varieties. Far more likely to be encountered in works about South Africa or historical texts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Someone] klaps [someone/something][Someone] gives [someone] a klapVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"klap him one" (hit him once)”
- “"That's a klap!" (South African slang: That's excellent/impressive)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used, except in linguistic or regional studies.
Everyday
Only in specific regional dialects (e.g., South Africa) meaning 'to hit' or as slang for 'awesome'.
Technical
Not used.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- He threatened to klap the nuisance.
American English
- In the old story, he would klap the dust from his hat.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- He gave the ball a klap with his hand.
- If you don't behave, you'll get a klap!
- The boxer delivered a swift klap to his opponent's jaw.
- Her latest business venture was an absolute klap, exceeding all expectations.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the sound KLAP! – it mimics the sharp sound of a slap.
Conceptual Metaphor
IMPACT IS FORCE (A 'klap' is a forceful impact, either physical or metaphorical as in 'a brilliant success').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with Russian "клап" (non-existent). Closest Russian word is "пощечина" (slap in the face) or "хлопок" (clap).
Common Mistakes
- Using 'klap' in international contexts where it will not be understood.
- Spelling it as 'clap' which has a different primary meaning (to applaud).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is 'klap' most likely to be used and understood?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a word found in English, but it is highly regional (South Africa) or archaic. It is not part of standard international vocabulary.
'Clap' primarily means to strike the hands together (applaud) or a sudden sound (thunderclap). 'Klap' specifically means to strike someone/something, a slap or blow.
No, it is considered informal slang or dialectal. Use standard terms like 'slap', 'strike', or 'hit' instead.
In some contemporary South African slang, it can mean 'excellent' or 'a great success', e.g., 'That party was a klap!'