pull punches: Idiom Meaning and Origin

Pull punches is an idiom commonly used in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States. It comes from the sport of boxing, where it means to intentionally hold back or restrain the force or impact of a punch to avoid causing serious harm to the opponent. This figurative meaning of 'pull punches' was first recorded in the early 20th century and has since become a common phrase used in a variety of contexts beyond boxing.

When someone is said to 'pull punches', it means that they are intentionally being less forceful or direct than they could be. It suggests that the person is holding back or restraining their true thoughts, feelings, or strength to show restraint or spare someone else's feelings. This can apply to verbal arguments, written statements, political speeches, or any situation where a person chooses to be less confrontational or aggressive in their approach.

It is important to note that 'pull punches' does not mean that the action or statement is entirely without force or impact. Instead, it implies a deliberate reduction in intensity, an intentional holding back of force or severity. The idiom suggests that the person could have been more forthright or forceful if they had chosen to, but instead chose to show restraint.

The idiom 'pull punches' is commonly used in everyday conversation, as well as in literature, journalism, and other forms of writing. It is recognized and understood by a majority of English speakers, especially in the United States.

Related to 'pull punches' are several other idioms that also involve the word 'pull'. One of these idioms is 'pull one's punches'. This phrase means to intentionally withhold or decrease the force or impact of one's punches, similar to 'pull punches'. However, 'pull one's punches' is typically used in a more metaphorical sense, referring to situations where someone is intentionally restraining themselves or holding back from expressing their true opinions or emotions.

Another related idiom is 'pull in one's horns'. This phrase is often used to describe someone who is choosing to become more cautious, careful, or reserved in their actions or behavior. It conveys the idea of someone drawing back or retracting their horns, similar to a bull holding back or restraining itself.

'sucker punch' is yet another idiom related to 'pull punches'. It refers to a surprise or unexpected punch delivered without warning, often when the recipient is unprepared or off guard. While 'pull punches' involves intentionally holding back or restraining the force of a punch, 'sucker punch' is the opposite, involving a sudden and forceful blow.

The final idiom related to 'pull punches' is 'pull faces'. This phrase means to make distorted or funny expressions with one's face, often to convey disapproval, mockery, or amusement. While 'pull faces' does not involve physical punches like the other idioms, it still conveys the idea of intentionally restraining or expressing oneself in a non-verbal and often humorous or exaggerated way.

'pull punches' is an idiomatic expression that originated from the sport of boxing and has evolved to describe situations in which someone intentionally restrains or lessens the impact of their words or actions. It conveys the idea of holding back or showing restraint without completely removing the force or impact. This idiom, along with related idioms such as 'pull one's punches', 'pull in one's horns', 'sucker punch', and 'pull faces', is widely recognized and understood by English speakers, particularly in the United States.