Slap on the wrist

Meaning

"Slap on the wrist" is an idiomatic expression that means to give someone a light punishment or reprimand, often as a form of discipline. It can also be used to describe a situation where someone receives little or no punishment for their actions. The phrase originated from the act of slapping someone's hand with one's own wrist.

Usage

• After breaking his neighbor's vase, the boy received a "slap on the wrist" from his mother.
• The manager gave me a "slap on the wrist" for forgetting to submit my report on time.
• The student was caught cheating on an exam and only received a "slap on the wrist" as punishment.
• The company faced backlash after they announced layoffs, but no one received any severance pay – it was just a "slap on the wrist."
• The athlete was suspended for three games after testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs, but he only received a "slap on the wrist" compared to other players who were caught using similar substances.

Roots and History

The expression "slap on the wrist" first appeared in English in the 16th century as a form of punishment for minor offenses. It was often used by parents or teachers to correct their children or students. Over time, the phrase evolved to describe light punishments that were considered insignificant compared to more severe ones. In modern times, "slap on the wrist" is often used in a figurative sense to describe situations where someone receives little or no punishment for their actions.

Synonyms in English

• A slap in the face
• A wrist-slap
• A pat on the back
• A gentle reminder
• A light reprimand

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "Patear la mano" - This phrase literally means "to pat the hand" and is used to describe a light punishment or reprimand.
• French: "Dresser un peu" - This phrase means "to dress someone up" and can be used figuratively to describe someone who receives little or no punishment for their actions.
• German: "Ein kleines Kippchen geben" - This phrase literally means "to give a small slap" and is used to describe a light punishment or reprimand.
• Italian: "Avere un buon patito" - This phrase means "to have a good scolding" and can be used figuratively to describe someone who receives little or no punishment for their actions.
• Japanese: "Noroi ga shitsuki deshita" - This phrase literally means "I feel sorry" and is often used in situations where someone received little or no punishment for their actions.

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