tapping away

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tapping away" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe the action of typing or using a keyboard, often in a repetitive or rhythmic manner. You can use it in any situation where someone is using a keyboard or typing on a device. Example: The author sat at his desk, tapping away at his keyboard as he worked on his latest novel.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

The kids intuitively start tapping away.

The New York Times

I look at Alice, tapping away.

Independent

It just kept tapping away.

The New York Times

He's tapping away at that watch again.

The Guardian - Sport

Björk might sing, Stravinsky would be tapping away.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Most were men, and many were tapping away on laptops.

The New York Times

Even as we talk, she has her laptop open and is tapping away.

The Guardian

I would stay up late at night, tapping away at war story after war story.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

What could be more different from us, tap-tapping away with social media always at hand?

The New York Times - Books

"I don't," he said, tap-tap-tapping away on his keyboard.

The New York Times - Magazine

A court reporter is tap-tap-tapping away.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tapping away" to vividly describe someone actively using a keyboard or device, implying focused and perhaps repetitive action. For variety, consider synonyms like "typing diligently" or "keyboarding rapidly".

Common error

While "tapping away" is widely understood, it might be too informal for academic papers or formal business reports. Opt for more neutral terms like "entering data" or "inputting text" in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "tapping away" is that of a present participle phrase, often used as part of a continuous verb tense or as a descriptive modifier. Ludwig confirms that it's a correct and usable phrase in English. Many examples show it describes an action being performed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Tech

15%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tapping away" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that vividly describes the act of typing or using a device, often implying a focused and continuous action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and is commonly used across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Tech. While generally neutral in register, it may be too informal for academic or formal business settings. Consider alternatives such as "typing diligently" or "keyboarding rapidly" for more formal tones. When using "tapping away", remember it emphasizes the manner of typing rather than just the speed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typing diligently

Emphasizes the effort and focus involved in typing.

keyboarding rapidly

Highlights the speed and action of using a keyboard.

entering data

Focuses on the purpose of typing, which is inputting information.

inputting text

Similar to entering data but specifically refers to textual information.

working on a device

Broader term, indicating any activity performed on a device, not just typing.

coding vigorously

Indicates intensive coding activity.

programming intently

Similar to coding, emphasizing focus and concentration.

composing content

Focuses on creating written material.

writing quickly

Highlights the speed of writing, whether by hand or keyboard.

texting rapidly

Focuses on quickly composing messages on a mobile device.

FAQs

How can I use "tapping away" in a sentence?

You can use "tapping away" to describe someone actively typing on a keyboard or using a device. For example: "She was "tapping away" at her laptop, finishing her report."

What are some alternatives to "tapping away"?

You can use alternatives like "typing diligently", "keyboarding rapidly", or "entering data" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "tap away" instead of "tapping away"?

While "tap away" can be used, it has a slightly different connotation, often implying a more casual or less focused action. "Tapping away" suggests a sustained or repetitive activity.

What is the difference between "tapping away" and "typing quickly"?

"Tapping away" emphasizes the continuous, rhythmic nature of typing, while "typing quickly" simply highlights the speed. The first focuses on the manner, the second on the outcome.