Off the hook!
Posted by Lewis on June 17, 2005
In Reply to: Left hook posted by Hong WK on June 17, 2005
: I came across a phrase while reading and it goes something like this, "hit somebody with a left hook". I think it is an American phrase. Can someone enlighten me on its meaning?
A 'hook' is a fighting term for a blow that is swung round the side - i.e. is shaped like a hook. I think it predates American-English due to simplicity.
the left or right is the arm that delivers the blow.
- Off the hook! Bruce Kahl 17/June/05