Tab vs. Tap — What's the Difference?

A tab is typically referred to as a small flap or projection sticking out from a larger piece, often for the purpose of attaching or marking something. For instance, when referring to folders, a tab might be the little section that protrudes, helping to label and categorize the content. On the other hand, a tap often refers to a light touch or strike, such as when one taps another person's shoulder to get their attention.

Tabs are also commonly associated with technology, especially in computing. For instance, in web browsers, tabs allow users to open multiple websites in the same window, switching between them effortlessly. Taps, in a similar tech context but a different application, can refer to the quick press one does on touch-screen devices to select an item or function.

In the context of music, tabs (or tablature) provide musicians with a form of musical notation that shows them where to place their fingers on the instrument, rather than indicating musical pitch. In a slightly analogous musical context, tapping is a guitar technique where the player touches the fretboard to produce sound.

Tabs are often found on clothing as well, serving as fasteners or markers. They might be present on zippers or even as markers on sneakers. Taps, on the other hand, can also refer to a form of dance, tap dancing, where dancers wear shoes fitted with metal plates and create rhythmic patterns by striking their feet against the floor.

The word tab can also pertain to financial situations. It's colloquially used to refer to the total bill at a restaurant or bar, as in "picking up the tab." Meanwhile, tap can also mean a device or fixture that controls the release of liquid, like a water tap or beer tap.