slaps on the back
Informal praise gestures
Slaps on the back are congratulatory gestures—literal or figurative pats of approval and encouragement.
The phrase often carries a slightly dismissive tone, suggesting praise that costs nothing: They gave each other slaps on the back but nobody actually did anything.
A single slap on the back is friendlier, a gesture of camaraderie or reassurance.
- pattingLight repeated touching
- tappingRepeated light striking
- praiseExpression of approval
- congratulationsExpression of praise for achievement
- encouragementSupport spurring continued effort
clapping · attaboy · acknowledgment · camaraderie · team spirit · backslapping · recognition · affirmation · validation · support · approval · endorsement · thumping · smacking · high five · thumbs up · celebration · appreciation
slaps on the backcriticism
Judgment of faults
rebukes · reprimands · condemnation · dressing-downs · tongue-lashings
slaps on the backslaps in the face
Sudden shocking insults
punches · shoves · kicks · stabs in the back · crossed arms
slap, slaps, slapped, slapping, slapper, back, backs, backed, backing