tape

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tape" is correct and usable in written English, depending on the context.
You can use it when referring to a recording medium or adhesive material, such as in audio or video recording, or when discussing the use of adhesive tape. Example: "Please make sure to tape the edges of the box securely before shipping."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Film

Books

Lifestyle

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Speaking in German, she said: "We need to cut unnecessary red tape at the European level that hampers our companies in Germany just as in the UK.

The Guardian

Cover the sharp staple-edges with clear tape.

The Guardian

Police found the video tape in a London garage.

The Guardian

Prosecutor Richard Whittam QC told the court how Daynes bought condoms, duct tape and syringes online in preparation for the attack before giving Breck a false alibi in case his parents asked questions about visiting a friend.

The Guardian

If anyone doubts this is the Djokovic era, check the tape.

The Guardian - Sport

Up on the roof of the stand to his right, a bloke with a pair of pliers and some electrical tape, shouted into a mobile phone at the other man looking up at him from the pitch below.

The Guardian - Sport

But be aware that he might well tape them and play them to enrage Sorrell and Sugar next time he sees them.

The Guardian

Sporting bodies who entangle their national teams in a surfeit of red tape tend to receive little sympathy.

The Guardian - Sport

I find the tape on a ledge about three-quarters of the way down the cliff face.

The Guardian - Books

He was kind enough to give Molby a copy of the tape afterwards so that he could recall it at his leisure at home.

The Guardian - Sport

(I blame the cheap tape recorder I was using).

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tape" as a verb, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to recording something or fastening it with adhesive tape. For clarity, specify the type of "tape" you are using, like "duct tape" or "electrical tape".

Common error

Avoid literal interpretations of the idiom "red tape". It refers to excessive bureaucracy and should not be confused with actual adhesive "tape". For example, saying "We need more red tape to secure these documents" is incorrect; "We need stricter procedures" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The word "tape" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a strip of adhesive material or a medium for recording. As a verb, it means to record or fasten with adhesive tape. Ludwig AI identifies its usage across diverse contexts from news to sports.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Sport

15%

Film

10%

Less common in

Books

8%

Lifestyle

7%

Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "tape" is a versatile term with various meanings, spanning from adhesive strips to recording media and even bureaucratic obstacles ("red tape"). As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions effectively as both a noun and a verb. Commonly found in "News & Media" and "Sport" contexts, "tape" carries a neutral tone suitable for broad communication. To ensure clarity, specify the type of "tape" (e.g., "duct tape", "electrical tape") and avoid literal interpretations of idioms like "red tape". The word is very common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

duct tape

Specifies a robust and versatile type of adhesive tape.

adhesive strip

Focuses specifically on the adhesive aspect of tape, suitable when adhesion is the primary characteristic.

electrical tape

Specifies a type of adhesive tape used by electricians.

recording medium

Emphasizes the function of tape as a medium for recording audio or video.

sticky roll

Highlights the physical form and adhesive property of the tape.

magnetic recording

Specifies the magnetic nature of the tape used for recording.

optical disc

A more modern recording technology, although the function is similar.

binder

Highlights tape as an element which connects things by means of adhesion.

red tape

Refers to bureaucratic processes, a metaphorical use of "tape".

ticker tape

Refers to a continuous paper strip used for conveying printed information.

FAQs

How is "tape" used as a noun?

As a noun, "tape" can refer to adhesive material (like "duct tape"), recording media (like "video tape"), or a finish line in a race. Context determines the precise meaning.

What does it mean to "tape" something?

To "tape" something means either to record it (e.g., "We are taping the show") or to fasten it with adhesive tape (e.g., "Tape the box shut").

What is "red tape"?

"Red tape" is an idiom referring to excessive bureaucracy or complex procedures that hinder progress. For example: "We need to cut unnecessary "red tape" to streamline the process".

What are some synonyms for "tape" when referring to recording?

When referring to recording, synonyms for "tape" include "record", "videotape", or "capture". For instance, instead of saying "Did you tape that?" you could say "Did you "record" that?"