he is tapped

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he is tapped" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is out of resources, energy, or ideas, often in a context of being overwhelmed or exhausted. Example: "After working long hours on the project, he is tapped and needs a break to recharge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

After he is tapped for a knighthood, and his picture is all over the newspapers, a man shows up at his doorstep bearing threats and photographs of Will's encounter with a young woman.

The New York Times

"When you listen to Marc's music, he is tapped into a very emotional space, and it's just about having the ability to translate that from one platform to another, which he does with ease," Ms. Pinkett-Smith, who is also a producer of the program, said.

The New York Times - Arts

Today he is tapped into three technology companies: he is chief operating officer of Systemcorp, which makes business process software; chairman of TQnet, an online quality-services provider; and chairman of Performance Improvement Network, a global group of consultants and information-technology service providers.

The New York Times

Though awkward in his plimsolls and woolen shorts, he is tapped by a mysterious instructor, Doktor Schneiderhahn, to train for the two-man scull known as the coxless pair, "the dragonfly among rowing boats, sometimes unsteady in its movements but always graceful, with oars that seemed too long for its slender hull".

The New York Times - Books

But he confirmed that he still sees himself as England's captain for the one-day series in Sri Lanka followed by the World Cup and, although he has yet to be told officially that is the case, it would clearly be a nasty surprise if he is tapped on the shoulder.

The Guardian - Sport

Andreessen has long been one of my favorite people to interview, because he is tapped into nearly every hot company and isn’t afraid to answer questions directly.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The Morse code he is tapping out says, "Here I am".

The New Yorker

He is tapping into a huge demand for a grassroots movement".

The New Yorker

He emerges from deep currents in our culture, and he is tapping into powerful sections of the national fantasy life.

The New York Times

Jordan has no oil, so "its people are the oil," says Fayyad, and he is tapping them.

The New York Times

By targeting reforms to GPs' services, Ed Miliband knows he is tapping into an area which has caused much consternation.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he is tapped", ensure the context clearly indicates whether it refers to being selected for something or being drained of resources. Clarity is key to avoid misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "he is tapped" in ambiguous situations where it's unclear whether you mean 'selected' or 'exhausted'. Rephrase for clarity if necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is tapped" primarily functions as a passive construction, indicating that someone is the recipient of an action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "he is tapped" carries a dual meaning, signifying either selection or exhaustion, with context being key to interpretation. Grammatically sound, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, it frequently appears in news and media, maintaining a neutral register. While not exceptionally common, its presence in reputable sources underscores its acceptability. Remember to consider the potential ambiguity and clarify as needed. When referring to selection, alternatives such as "he was chosen" or "he was selected" might be suitable. When referring to exhaustion, "he is drained" or "he is exhausted" could work instead. Ultimately, using "he is tapped" effectively hinges on ensuring clarity within the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he was selected

Focuses on the act of being chosen for a specific purpose or role.

he was chosen

Emphasizes the act of being picked out from a group.

he was picked

Similar to 'chosen' but implies a more informal selection process.

he was appointed

Suggests a formal assignment to a position or task.

he was designated

Implies an official labeling or assignment.

he is being utilized

Highlights the active use of someone's skills or resources.

he is influenced

Indicates that someone is being affected or swayed by external factors.

he is being exploited

Suggests unfair or selfish use of someone for personal gain.

he is running dry

This conveys that he is running out of resources.

he is elected

Emphasizes the act of being chosen via election.

FAQs

How can "he is tapped" be used in a sentence?

The phrase "he is tapped" can be used to indicate someone has been chosen for a role or is depleted of resources. For example, "He is tapped for the leadership position" or "He is tapped after the long project".

What does "he is tapped" mean?

The meaning of "he is tapped" depends on the context. It could mean he was selected for a particular role or opportunity, or it could mean he is exhausted or depleted of resources.

What are some alternatives to "he is tapped" for selection?

Alternatives to "he is tapped" when referring to selection include "he was chosen", "he was selected", or "he was appointed".

What are some alternatives to "he is tapped" for exhaustion?

When referring to exhaustion, alternatives to "he is tapped" include "he is drained", "he is exhausted", or "he is running dry".