win on points

Idioms  

1. Succeed but barely, especially by a technicality. For example, Both sides were forceful in that argument about the embargo, but I think the senator won on points. This term comes from boxing, where in the absence of a knockout the winner is decided on the basis of points awarded for each round. Its figurative use dates from the mid-1900s.

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Example Sentences

"Eubank knows the power Benn possess now and should be in much better shape physically for the rematch. I'm backing Eubank to win on points."

From BBC

"I think it is another really competitive and close fight, but I'm backing Eubank to win on points and put in a solid performance. I like Benn, I think he's a solid fighter, but I'm not sure if he has made the adjustments needed to win this fight."

From BBC

"I think Canelo's size will play a big part in this, Crawford is coming up a few weight divisions and there will be a size difference between them, Canelo's so powerful at that weight. Crawford's skills will be his biggest advantage and he could possibly outbox Canelo, but I think Canelo will be too big and too strong and I think he will win on points."

From BBC

Watson's opponent, Jasmina Zapotoczna: "I predict Jonas will win on points. People are underestimating her because of her age but she is so experienced, a southpaw, tricky in the ring and very focused."

From BBC

Lightweight world champion Rhiannon Dixon: “I have a lot of love for Usyk because he’s a southpaw. I’m obsessed with southpaws because I am one. But, with the whole low blow controversial shot in the Daniel Dubois fight, I think Fury wins. It is the way he has handled fights in the past, and he’s just very big. Fury will win on points. I don’t think Usyk gets knocked out.”

From BBC