pull punches

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb

To avoid using a high level of force when punching.
To act with reserve; especially, to word something delicately to avoid giving offense or inciting anger.

En-au-pull punches.ogg

pull punches pulls punches pulling punches pulled punches pull one's punches

Originally from boxing. First use appears c. the 1920s.

hold back mince words

go easy go easy on kid glove no holds barred

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