pull one's punches

Определение и Значение "pull one's punches"

to pull one's punches

ФРАЗА

быть менее напористым, жестоким

to deliberately hold back or lessen the force or impact of one's actions, often to avoid causing harm or offense

to [pull] {one's} punches definition and meaning

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "pull one's punches" and when to use it?

The idiom "pull one's punches" originates from boxing, where "pulling punches" means to throw a punch with less force or intensity than one could. In a broader sense, the phrase is used to describe the act of not putting one's full effort into something, often to be less critical or less forceful when expressing opinions, criticism, or feedback.

Example

In the world we live in, you do n't get anywhere by pulling your punches.

During the presentation, he did n't pull his punches and gave a straightforward critique of the project's flaws.

She decided not to pull her punches when discussing the issues with her co-worker's performance to ensure improvement.

pull no punches

{not} [pull] {one's} punches

{not} [pull] any punches

to pull no punches

ФРАЗА

говорить честно, не пытаясь быть добрым

to show one's criticism or disapproval without considering other people's feelings

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "pull no punches" and when to use it?

The idiom "pull no punches" originates from boxing, where pulling punches refers to not reducing the force of a punch, and when one "pulls no punches," one delivers one's feedback or statements with full force, even if they are critical or harsh. This phrase is often used to describe a forthright and no-nonsense approach to communication.

Example

And after the match, the Carlisle boss was n't pulling his punches when describing his players' performance.

My father is very direct and pulls no punches.

We've not pulled any punches and have emphasised that this is a criminal act and there are huge costs and consequences to starting fires.