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]

---

Example Sentences

Gilliam recently taught his 6-year-old to throw a punch; he also paints her nails.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 19, 2026

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

The ridiculousness continued into the fight as Danis - who kept talking and laughing throughout the contest - would rarely throw a punch.

From BBC • Oct. 14, 2023

Laraine was a bright, fierce woman who could throw a punch and knew the craft of cooking well.

From Seattle Times • May 14, 2023

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