counter punch
Reactive fighting blow
A counter punch is a punch thrown in response to an opponent's attack, using the opening created by their movement.
The term comes from boxing but extends to any retaliatory strike or response: She waited for him to overextend, then landed a perfect counter punch.
Figuratively, it describes a well-timed comeback or rebuttal: The campaign's counter punch came within hours of the attack ad.
- riposteSwift clever reply
- hookCurved catching device
- retaliationPunitive response to injury
- boxingCombat sport using fists
- sweet scienceBoxing's elegant nickname
dodge · parry · bob and weave · uppercut · timing · split second · feint · block · clinch · defensive · ring · gloves · fight night · swagger · knockout · haymaker · pull the trigger · catch and shoot
- tacticsmaneuver, gambit, ambush, counterstrike, flanking
- fighting techniquesblock, parry, dodge, guard, sweep
- kickboxingkickboxing, jab, sparring, hook kick, roundhouse kick
- strikesgeneral strike, labor strike, wildcat strike, strike action, walkout
- racket sportsserve, volley, forehand, backhand, doubles
initiative/timing
counter punchfirst strike
Initiating combat unprovoked
jab · preemptive strike · lead-off · initiative · aggression