sucker punch
Meaning(s)
1. a sudden, unexpected blow
Popularity
Medium
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
be hit with a sucker punch
Analysis
A 'sucker punch' is a violent blow or violent strike. The blow in question can refer to being physically struck by somebody unexpectedly, or a damaging defeat or setback. To strike somebody when they are not looking or expecting it is seen as a sneaky, cowardly, and dangerous act, and it is often done without any provocation. In this sense, the term is used exclusively in a social context. A setback or defeat that is a 'sucker punch' can be debilitating, even catastrophic due to it's unexpected and forceful nature, and can be applied to either a social or professional context. A similar term is 'to blindside somebody.' This is an informal expression.
Social Examples (Basic)
- The new tax hike came totally out of the blue and was a sucker punch to the millions in the country who are already struggling to make ends meet.
- The boxer was sucker punched by his opponent when the two fighters went to touch gloves before the start of the bout.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- The other company's decision to withdraw from the deal at the very last minute was a sucker punch that we are still struggling to recover from.