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A word and a blow

Posted by ESC on September 04, 2004

In Reply to: A word and a blow posted by Tulio on September 04, 2004

: Can anybody help with the meaning of this one:

: A knock-down argument; 'tis but a word and a blow.

: John Dryden: Amphitryon, act i. sc. 1.

: I've found similar quotes on J. Bunyan, W. Shakespeare and R. Burton

A verbal exchange or battle of words that turns into a fist fight. "Blow" as in: a forcible stroke delivered with a part of the body or with an instrument. (Merriam-Webster)

I've heard people say, "knock-down, drag out fight." But sometimes it's just being used figuratively. No one actually hits anybody. It means an intense argument.

Does that address your question?

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