Pugilistic

usgb/ˌpjuːdʒɪˈlɪstɪk/
adjective

Related to boxing or fighting with fists.

His pugilistic skills helped him to win the match.
Visual representation of "pugilistic" - Related to boxing or fighting with fists.

Often appears as...

  • pugilistic skills
  • pugilistic encounter

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "pugilistic"
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Sporting Context

Use 'pugilistic' when discussing topics related to sports, especially boxing or martial arts.

Illustration for Sporting Context
The documentary highlighted the pugilistic culture of the inner city.
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Metaphorical Use

'Pugilistic' can describe a combative situation even if it's not a physical fight, like a debate.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The political debate took on a pugilistic tone as each candidate attacked the other's policies.
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Historical Reference

Sometimes refers to the historical form of bare-knuckle boxing, connecting to traditional fighting styles.

Illustration for Historical Reference
He wrote his thesis on the pugilistic traditions of 19th-century London.
Word comparison image

Compare with

aggressivebellicosebelligerentcombativemartialquarrelsometruculentviolent
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Visual representation of the word "Pugilistic"

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