pats on the back
Signs of approval
Pats on the back are gestures of approval, encouragement, or congratulation—from the literal act of patting someone's back to any form of praise or recognition.
The team got pats on the back from management after the successful launch.
To pat yourself on the back is to congratulate yourself, sometimes with a hint of self-satisfaction.
- backslappingExuberant physical congratulation
- hugTight, affectionate clasp
- encouragementSupport spurring continued effort
- shout-outPublic recognition given
- acknowledgmentConfirmation of receipt
tap · commendation · congratulation · applause · round of applause · standing ovation · kudos · gold star · high-five · accolade · handshake · fist bump · validation · thumbs-up · approval · stamp of approval · tribute · toast
pats on the backcriticism
Judgment of faults
harsh words · tongue-lashings · dressing-downs · rebukes · reprimands
pats on the backslaps on the wrist
Trivially lenient penalties
punishments · penalties · disciplinary actions · sanctions · demerits
pats on the backslaps in the face
Sudden shocking insults
kicks in the teeth · stabs in the back · cold shoulders · brush-offs · dismissals
pats, patted, patting, back, backs, backed, backing, backer, backside