Off the hook!
Posted by Bruce Kahl on June 17, 2005
In Reply to: Off the hook! posted by Lewis 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.
A left hook is thrown outside of the opponent's vision and is difficult to defend against.
So if the you are a victim of a left hook then the phrase is meant as a type of surprise.