1. To surrender or give up: This is the most common meaning of "tap out" and is often used in combat sports like MMA or boxing. It means to signal that you are unable to continue fighting and are conceding defeat.
2. To quit or withdraw from something: This meaning is similar to the first one but can be used in a broader context. For example, you might "tap out" of a conversation or a task if you are overwhelmed or uninterested.
3. To stop paying for something: This is a less common meaning but can be used to indicate that someone is no longer able to afford something, like a subscription or a loan.
4. To reach a limit or be unable to do more: This meaning is often used when someone is physically or mentally exhausted and cannot continue.
Example:
* Combat sports: "The fighter tapped out after a brutal submission hold."
* Quitting something: "I'm going to tap out of this project; it's just too stressful."
* Stopping payment: "I'm going to tap out of my gym membership; I can't afford it anymore."
* Reaching a limit: "I'm completely tapped out after working all day and studying all night."
The specific meaning of "tap out" should be clear from the context of the conversation.