- 1[countable] a hard hit made with the fist (= closed hand) a punch in the face Hill threw a punch at the police officer. a knockout punch He shot out his right arm and landed a punch on Lorrimer's nose. see rabbit punch
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- 2[uncountable] the power to interest people It's a well-constructed crime story, told with speed and punch.
- 3[countable] a tool or machine for cutting holes in paper, leather, or metal a hole punch picture at stationery
- 4[uncountable] a drink made by mixing water, fruit juice, spices, and sometimes wine or another alcoholic drink a recipe for fruit punch Idioms
- 1(of a boxer) to be capable of hitting someone very hard
- 2to have a powerful effect on someone The advertising campaign packs quite a punch.
to get or do something before someone else can
(usually used in negative sentences) to express something less strongly than you are able to, for example to avoid upsetting or shocking someone Her articles certainly don't pull any punches.
to adapt yourself to a difficult situation
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