put a tape on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "put a tape on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the action of applying tape to an object or surface for various purposes, such as sealing, holding, or marking. Example: "Before you send the package, make sure to put a tape on the box to secure it."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Wrap the other paper around it and put a tape on it.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Put a tape recorder on the outcrop.

The New Yorker

I put a tape recorder on the table.

The New York Times

We put a tape player, then a computer, on their desks.

The New York Times - Magazine

On the way back, Mike, our guitarist, put a cassette tape on in the car, turned around, and asked me if I could guess who it was.

Vice

On the way back Mike, our guitarist, put a cassette tape on in the car, turned around and asked me if I could guess who it was.

Vice

They cut it down and put a little tape on it.

The New York Times

The costume designer put a special tape on the sides so they wouldn't come off when I take off my mask.

Huffington Post

Similarly, the enduring false belief that Ravi was responsible for outing Tyler Clementi, and for putting a sex tape on the Internet, can be seen as a collective effort to balance a terrible event with a terrible cause.

The New Yorker

Her trick: She went through the screening by placing her index fingers over a fingerprint reader after putting a special tape on the fingers.

TechCrunch

And with it, a place of cherished childhood memories for any kid who ever peeked through a return slot, or had to step on their tippy-toes to put a returned tape up on the counter.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "put a tape on", specify the type of tape if it's relevant to the context (e.g., "put a masking tape on" or "put duct tape on").

Common error

Avoid omitting the article "a" before "tape". Saying "put tape on" is grammatically incorrect; it should always be "put a tape on" unless referring to tape in general.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put a tape on" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of applying adhesive tape to a surface or object. Ludwig AI shows various examples where this phrase is used in instructional contexts, news reports, and general descriptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

36%

News & Media

36%

Science

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "put a tape on" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the act of applying tape. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts, from how-to guides on WikiHow to news articles. While versatile, it's important to specify the type of tape if relevant. Common errors include omitting the article "a". To diversify your writing, consider alternatives like "apply tape" or "affix tape". Overall, "put a tape on" is a practical and understandable phrase in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

affix tape

Replaces "put" with "affix", emphasizing the act of attaching the tape.

apply tape

Uses "apply" instead of "put", focusing on the action of application.

stick tape

Employs "stick" as a more informal substitute for "put".

secure with tape

Highlights the purpose of using tape: to secure something.

fasten with tape

Similar to "secure with tape", emphasizing attachment.

place tape

Uses "place" to describe putting tape somewhere.

fix with tape

Indicates that tape is used for repairing or fixing something.

adhere tape

A more formal way to describe sticking tape.

attach tape

Similar to 'affix tape', focusing on the connection made by the tape.

cover with tape

Highlights the act of using tape to cover something.

FAQs

How can I use "put a tape on" in a sentence?

You can use "put a tape on" when you want to express the action of applying tape to an object or surface, such as "I need to "put a tape on" the box to seal it shut".

What are some alternatives to saying "put a tape on"?

Alternatives include "apply tape", "affix tape", or "stick tape". The choice depends on the formality and context of your writing.

Is it correct to say "put tape on" instead of "put a tape on"?

No, it is not correct. The grammatically correct phrasing is ""put a tape on"". Omitting the article "a" is a common error.

In what situations is it appropriate to use "put a tape on"?

"Put a tape on" is appropriate in various situations, from crafting projects to securing packages. For example, ""put a tape on" it to hold it together" or ""put a tape on" the label so it doesn't get wet".