A slap in the face
noun
An action or event that insults or disrespects someone.
Her betrayal was a slap in the face.
Often appears as...
- feel like a slap in the face
- receive a slap in the face
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
noun
A sudden disappointment.
Losing the game was a slap in the face.
Often appears as...
- take as a slap in the face
- feel like a slap in the face
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
noun
An action or event that insults or disrespects someone.
Her betrayal was a slap in the face.
Often appears as...
- feel like a slap in the face
- receive a slap in the face
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
noun
A sudden disappointment.
Losing the game was a slap in the face.
Often appears as...
- take as a slap in the face
- feel like a slap in the face
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Not Physical
It's metaphorical, meaning no actual hitting happened. It emphasizes emotional hurt or shock.
When she laughed at his poem, it felt like a slap in the face.
Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Impact
Used to describe an event that causes significant emotional pain or embarrassment.
His public criticism was a slap in the face to her hard work.
Pro Tip 3/3Relationship Context
Often used when someone feels betrayed or let down by someone they trust.
Finding out my friend lied to me was a slap in the face.
Pro Tip 1/3Not Physical
It's metaphorical, meaning no actual hitting happened. It emphasizes emotional hurt or shock.
When she laughed at his poem, it felt like a slap in the face.
Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Impact
Used to describe an event that causes significant emotional pain or embarrassment.
His public criticism was a slap in the face to her hard work.
Pro Tip 3/3Relationship Context
Often used when someone feels betrayed or let down by someone they trust.
Finding out my friend lied to me was a slap in the face.
Pro Tip 1/3Not Physical
It's metaphorical, meaning no actual hitting happened. It emphasizes emotional hurt or shock.
When she laughed at his poem, it felt like a slap in the face.
Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Impact
Used to describe an event that causes significant emotional pain or embarrassment.
His public criticism was a slap in the face to her hard work.
Pro Tip 3/3Relationship Context
Often used when someone feels betrayed or let down by someone they trust.
Finding out my friend lied to me was a slap in the face.
Never forget "A slap in the face"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension