dukes it out
Fights with fists
To duke it out is to fight or compete intensely, whether physically or figuratively.
The expression comes from slang use of dukes for fists.
The two candidates duked it out in a heated debate.
They duked it out in the parking lot after the game.
- debatingFormal argumentative discourse
- boxingCombat sport using fists
- arguingVerbal conflict between parties
- contestingActively disputing or vying
- wrestlingCombat sport requiring holds
coming to blows · grappling · no holds barred · confronting · brawling · going toe to toe · squaring off · quarreling · sparring · battling · rivalry · punching · trading punches · throwing hands · slugging · competing · disputing · fisticuffs
dukes it outmakes peace
Resolves conflict amicably
mediates · comes to terms · buries the hatchet · arbitrates · reconciles
dukes it outbacks down
Withdraws from confrontation
walks away · retreats · flees · yields · runs away
dukes it outcollaborates
Works jointly with others
cooperates · joins forces · unites · pulls together · bands together