work over
Thrash someone thoroughly
To work someone over is to beat them up, typically as punishment or to extract information: The thugs worked him over in the alley.
The phrase suggests sustained, methodical violence rather than a single blow.
Less commonly, to work something over means to examine or revise it thoroughly: She worked over the manuscript until it was tight.
Rhythmic pulse or strike
- pummelStrike repeatedly with fists
- thrashBeat violently or defeat utterly
- batterUncooked cake mixture
- rough upAssault without severe injury
attack · brutalize · maul · strike · punch · kick · hit · abuse
beat
Rhythmic pulse or strike
rough up · attack · brutalize · maul · strike · punch · kick · hit · abuse · mug
edit
Modify written material
improve · review · revamp · redo · overhaul · tweak · touch up · clean up · rethink · reshape
convince
Cause to believe
- pressureForce upon contact
- coaxPersuade by gentle urging
- manipulateControl through clever influence
coerce · sway · influence · lean on · wear down · cajole · browbeat · arm-twist · sweet-talk · badger