water tap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "water tap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a device which controls the flow of water. For example, "I had to turn off the water tap in order to fix the leak."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Hmm," we thought, glancing back at the hot water tap with suspicion, "maybe not today".

The Guardian - Travel

Washing-up is a long operation, without a dishwasher or a hot water tap.

The Guardian

"Tenements 10 floors high, one cold water tap for each floor.

The Guardian - Arts

But they do have a water tap nearby which they contribute to the cost of.

The Guardian

There's a water tap on hand to clean the can and the vial.

The Guardian

The housewife doesn't want the water tap to go dry while she is washing".

The New York Times

Its dank and we even have to share a water tap with our neighbours".

The Guardian

Fifty women with pails and barrels are gathered around a water tap.

The New York Times

I found myself almost looking for a water tap to see whether it still worked.

The Washington Post

My husband needs to get to work!" a woman shouts, in jostling over a water tap.

The Economist

He pauses here to take a sip of his water, tap water.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "water tap" in formal and informal contexts when explaining the presence of a water supply in a specific location.

Common error

Avoid simply using the term "tap" if there's a chance the reader might not immediately understand you're referring to a water source. Always prioritize clarity and specify "water tap" especially in technical or descriptive contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "water tap" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of fixture used to control the release of water. Ludwig examples confirm this use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "water tap" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a fixture that controls the flow of water. As indicated by Ludwig, it's utilized in a variety of contexts, from news and media to scientific and formal business writing. Ludwig's AI confirms its acceptability in English. While synonyms like "faucet" and "tap" exist, "water tap" provides enhanced clarity by explicitly referencing a water source. When clarity is paramount, especially in technical or descriptive writing, specifying "water tap" is advisable. The phrase exhibits a neutral register and is frequently found in news articles, scientific papers, and general discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

faucet

A more general term referring to any device controlling the flow of liquid.

tap

A shorter, more concise term with the same meaning.

water faucet

Adds the 'water' adjective for increased clarity.

spigot

Refers more specifically to an outdoor water tap.

hydrant

Typically refers to a large outlet for water, often used by firefighters.

water valve

Highlights the mechanism that controls the flow.

plumbing fixture

A broader term encompassing any installed part of a plumbing system, including water taps.

water outlet

Describes the point from which water is released.

source of water

Focuses on the availability of water from the tap.

water supply

Refers to the system that delivers water, including the tap.

FAQs

How can I use "water tap" in a sentence?

You can use "water tap" in sentences like, "The nearest "water tap" is a 15-minute walk away" or "She turned on the "water tap" to wash her hands".

What can I say instead of "water tap"?

You can use alternatives like "faucet", "tap", or "water faucet" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "water tap" or "tap"?

Both ""water tap"" and "tap" can be correct. "Water tap" is more specific and clarifies that you are referring to a water source, whereas "tap" can refer to other types of taps as well.

What's the difference between "water tap" and "water faucet"?

The terms ""water tap"" and "water faucet" are largely interchangeable and have the same meaning. The choice often depends on regional preference or style.