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?
- ...On any the least colour. Tulio 05/September/04
- ...On any the least colour. ESC 05/September/04
- ...On any the least colour. Lotg (OZ) 06/September/04
- ...On any the least colour. ESC 05/September/04