C1verbinformal1K

Slam

UK /["/slæm/","/slæmz/","/slæmd/","/ˈslæmɪŋ/"]/US /["/slæm/","/slæmz/","/slæmd/","/ˈslæmɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to shut, or to make something shut, with a lot of force, making a loud noise

In simple words: to hit something very hard or shut it forcefully

Examples

  • He slammed the door shut after the argument.
  • She slammed her book down on the table in frustration.
  • The player slammed the ball into the net, scoring the winning goal.
  • Critics slammed the movie for its weak plot and poor acting.
  • The boxer slammed his opponent to the mat in the third round.

Usage notes

Use 'slam' informally to describe hitting or closing something with force. It's common in casual conversations but might not be appropriate in formal settings.

Grammar pattern

slam + object

Memory hint

Think of 'slam dunk' in basketball, where a player forcefully puts the ball in the hoop.

Collocations

  • hard
  • loudly
  • angrily
  • hear something
  • against
  • behind
  • into
  • slam something home
  • slam on the brakes
  • slam (something) shut
  • hard
  • loudly
  • angrily
  • hear something
  • against
  • behind
  • into
  • slam something home
  • slam on the brakes
  • slam (something) shut

Synonyms

  • bang

Antonyms

  • lift
  • open
  • softly close

Common mistakes

  • Using 'slam' in the passive voice incorrectly — e.g., 'was slammed by the door' instead of 'the door was slammed'.
  • Confusing 'slam' with 'slip' or 'slide'.
  • 'Slam' is often mistakenly used to describe gentle actions.