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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.

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