Slap in the face vs. slap on the back
Slap in the face – insult, affront, humiliation
- It was a real slap in the face when he didn’t invite me to the wedding.
- The union leaders consider the 5% increase in the wages offered as a slap in the face.
- His remarks were a slap in the face for the local community.
Slap on the back – compliments, congratulations.
- The coach gave him a slap on the back for coming in first.
- Her boss gave her a slap on the back for completing the project before schedule.
- They deserve a hearty slap on the back for their efforts.