throw a punch

Idioms  

1. Deliver a blow with the first, as in He was furious enough to throw a punch at the other driver. This term originated in boxing but has been extended to less formal fisticuffs as well. [First half of 1900s]

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Example Sentences

And I’m really thankful for the stunt team that we had, because there’s only so many different ways that you can throw a punch.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 12, 2024

He is like the boxer who can throw a punch but can’t take one.

From Salon • Oct. 15, 2024

Napier said he was unaware that Cox appeared to throw a punch in the fourth quarter of Florida’s 42-20 loss to Georgia on Saturday.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 31, 2022

England "didn't throw a punch" in their defeat against 14-man Australia, hooker Jamie George says.

From BBC • Jul. 2, 2022

Before either could throw a punch, a familiar voice said, “Hang on, Dennis, we’ll get this sorted,” and Martin stepped out of the crowd to wedge himself between them.

From "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" by Ransom Riggs