quick tap

Light swift poke

A quick tap is a brief, light touch—usually with a finger on a screen or button: A quick tap on the notification opened the app.

The phrase emphasizes speed and minimal contact, distinguishing it from a press, hold, or deliberate gesture.

In touchscreen interfaces, a quick tap typically selects or activates something.

Related
  • patGentle palm stroke
  • flickBrief, sharp motion
  • clickBrief sharp noise
  • touchPerceiving through physical contact
  • pokeSharp, quick thrust

rap · knock · morse code · dab · swipe · press · finger · screen · beat · rhythm · staccato · light · gentle · swift · snappy · nimble · drum · pulse

Opposites
duration/persistence

quick taplong press

Prolonged screen touch

press and hold · hold · lingering touch

Family

quick, tap, quicker, quickest, quickly, quickness, quicken, quickens, quickened

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G