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

Former featherweight champion Kid Galahad: "I'm going with a John Ryder win on points."

From BBC

Featherweight world champion Leigh Wood: "I think Smith will win on points. Both fighters will get hurt and Eubank has got a chin but Liam has more push in him and his style will make it tough for Eubank."

From BBC

Cruiserweight Scott Forrest: "Liam will be too much for him. Too strong. Eubank's got a good chin so I think Liam will win on points."

From BBC

Jonas claimed a unanimous win on points to condemn Canada's Dicaire, 36, to just her second professional defeat.

From BBC

Each competitor takes turns delivering and receiving until there is a knockout, technical knockout, or a win on points after the final round.

From Washington Times