slap on the wrist

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But to many of the states, the deal looked like a slap on the wrist, not the catalyst needed to promote competition in concert ticketing.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 26, 2026

After a prolonged legal battle between Elon Musk and U.S. regulators over his past purchase of Twitter shares, the technology CEO is getting off with little more than a slap on the wrist.

From MarketWatch • May 4, 2026

It would be generous to call that fine a slap on the wrist.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

Wuterich's military lawyer, Haytham Faraj, a former marine himself, said the punishment was "tantamount to a slap on the wrist… like a speeding ticket".

From BBC • Nov. 16, 2025

“Yeah, The Corporation will probably only get a slap on the wrist and get to set up shop somewhere else. Everything’s being blamed on Ladybird. Typical.”

From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray