counter-punch
Defensive offensive blow
A counter-punch is a punch thrown in response to an opponent's attack, exploiting the opening they create: He slipped the jab and landed a sharp counter-punch.
The term extends beyond boxing to any retaliatory strike or response: The campaign released attack ads, and the counter-punch came within hours.
Also spelled counterpunch.
Quick, straight blow
- hookCurved catching device
- uppercutAscending boxing strike
- crossPass from side to side
- feintDeceptive mock attack
parry · slip · clinch · southpaw · orthodox · footwork · sparring · ring
Retaliation for wrongs
- reprisalPunitive action in return
- retributionPunishment for wrongdoing
- revengePunishing a wrongdoer
- counterattackOffensive response to aggression
counterstroke · tit-for-tat · backlash · retort · reciprocation · countermeasure · response · vengeance
Involuntary stimulus response
- instinctiveArising without conscious thought
- timingArt of choosing moments
- anticipationState of awaiting something
- readingInterpreting written text
defensive · opportunistic · split-second · quick · snap · immediate · waiting · patience
Strategically planned
- calculatedFigured out mathematically
- baitingDeliberately trying to provoke
- setupHow something is arranged
- trapDevice for catching animals
lure · misdirection · feint · patience · timing · positioning · distance · angles
jab
Quick, straight blow
feint · parry · slip · clinch · southpaw · orthodox · footwork · sparring · ring · gloves
payback
Retaliation for wrongs
- reprisalPunitive action in return
- retributionPunishment for wrongdoing
- revengePunishing a wrongdoer
counterattack · counterstroke · tit-for-tat · backlash · retort · reciprocation · countermeasure · response · vengeance · redress
reflex
Involuntary stimulus response
- instinctiveArising without conscious thought
- timingArt of choosing moments
- anticipationState of awaiting something
reading · defensive · opportunistic · split-second · quick · snap · immediate · waiting · patience · exploiting
tactical
Strategically planned
- calculatedFigured out mathematically
- baitingDeliberately trying to provoke
- setupHow something is arranged
trap · lure · misdirection · feint · patience · timing · positioning · distance · angles · exploitation
counter-punchfirst strike
Initiating combat unprovoked
jab · preemptive strike · sucker punch · lead-off · first move
counter-punchaggression
Hostile or attacking behavior
initiative · offensive strategy · swarming · pressing · leading