C1verb2K

Punch

UK /["/pʌntʃ/","/ˈpʌntʃɪz/","/pʌntʃt/","/ˈpʌntʃɪŋ/"]/US /["/pʌntʃ/","/ˈpʌntʃɪz/","/pʌntʃt/","/ˈpʌntʃɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to hit somebody/something hard with your fist (= closed hand)

In simple words: To hit someone with your fist.

Examples

  • He learned how to punch correctly during his boxing lessons.
  • She used a hole punch to make holes in the paper.
  • The chef will punch the dough to release the air bubbles.
  • He had to punch the numbers into the ATM to withdraw cash.
  • The scoreboard operator will punch in the scores as they come in.
  • To make a paper chain, you first punch holes along the edges.
  • In the old days, operators would punch cards to input data into computers.

Usage notes

Used in both physical and figurative contexts. Avoid using it in very formal writing. It's more common in casual conversations and in some sports contexts.

Grammar pattern

punch + object

Memory hint

Imagine a fist coming towards you with a strong punch!

Collocations

  • hard
  • lightly
  • playfully
  • in
  • on
  • kick and punch
  • punch and kick

Synonyms

  • hit
  • strike
  • blow
  • hit hard
  • rap

Antonyms

  • caress
  • pat
  • embrace

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'punch' with 'pounce' which means to leap quickly.
  • Using 'punch' in the past tense as 'punched' incorrectly without knowing the rules for regular verbs.
  • Using 'punch' as a noun without knowing it can also mean a type of drink.