pat
B1Neutral to informal for the physical action. 'Pat' as an adjective (e.g., 'pat answer') is more formal/critical.
Definition
Meaning
To touch quickly and lightly with the flat of the hand, often as a gesture of affection, approval, or comfort.
As a noun: a light, quick touch with the hand. As a verb: to tap gently. As an adjective/adverb: describing something as perfectly suited, ready, or memorized without hesitation (e.g., a pat answer).
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The verb implies gentle, repetitive contact, often with a flat surface (palm). It can denote reassurance, condescension, or casual touching. The adjectival use often has a negative connotation of being overly glib or rehearsed.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal. Both use 'pat' identically for the core meanings. The idiom 'pat on the back' (praise) is universal.
Connotations
Identical.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
pat [sb/sth] (on the [body part])pat [sth] dry/down/flatpat [sb] (for [sth])Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “a pat on the back”
- “have/know something down pat”
- “stand pat”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used metaphorically: 'He got a pat on the back for the report.'
Academic
Rare, except in the critical phrase 'a pat answer' meaning an oversimplified response.
Everyday
Common for describing interactions with pets, children, or food preparation.
Technical
In cooking: 'Pat the meat dry before searing.'
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- She patted the dough into a round shape.
- He patted his pocket to check for his keys.
American English
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- She patted the dog on its head.
adverb
British English
- The excuse came out pat, as if he had practised it.
- He answered pat, without thinking.
American English
- She recited the rules pat.
- He knew the procedure pat.
adjective
British English
- His explanation was too pat to be convincing.
- She had her lines down pat for the audition.
American English
- That seems like a pat answer to a complex problem.
- The salesman's pitch was pat and rehearsed.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The mother patted her baby to sleep.
- He gave his friend a pat on the shoulder.
- Pat the stain gently with a damp cloth.
- After the win, the coach patted all the players on the back.
- Her politically correct responses sounded pat and insincere.
- You should pat the herbs dry before chopping them.
- The veteran poker player decided to stand pat with his hand.
- Despite the probing questions, he had a pat reply for every one.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a friendly CAT that you PAT on its back. Both words rhyme and share the 'at' sound.
Conceptual Metaphor
AFFECTION IS GENTLE TOUCH (patting a dog), PREPAREDNESS IS SMOOTHNESS/SOLIDITY (having an answer down pat).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'pet' (гладить). 'Pat' is lighter and more specific. 'Pat on the back' is idiomatic praise, not physical action.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: 'She patted me my shoulder.' Correct: 'She patted me on the shoulder.'
Practice
Quiz
What does the idiom 'stand pat' most likely mean?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in its core meaning. A hard touch would be a 'slap' or 'hit'.
'Pat' is a light, quick touch, often repeated. 'Pet' implies a slower, continuous stroking motion, usually showing affection to an animal.
Yes. A 'pat answer' is criticism of a response that is too quick, simplistic, and seems rehearsed, lacking depth.
Frequently. 'Pat dry' is a common instruction to remove surface moisture from ingredients like meat or tofu to ensure better browning.