Pull your punches
verb
To not use full force or speak less strongly to not harm or upset somebody.
He knew that his friend was sensitive, so he pulled his punches when it came to the criticism.
Often appears as...
- decided to pull his punches
- have to pull your punches
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
In boxing, to deliberately reduce the force of one's punches to avoid injuring the opponent.
The seasoned boxer pulled his punches during the exhibition match with the novice.
Often appears as...
- boxer pull his punches
- pull his punches in the ring
Usage tips
Technical
verb
To not use full force or speak less strongly to not harm or upset somebody.
He knew that his friend was sensitive, so he pulled his punches when it came to the criticism.
Often appears as...
- decided to pull his punches
- have to pull your punches
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
In boxing, to deliberately reduce the force of one's punches to avoid injuring the opponent.
The seasoned boxer pulled his punches during the exhibition match with the novice.
Often appears as...
- boxer pull his punches
- pull his punches in the ring
Usage tips
Technical
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Tact
Use it when being gentle with someone's feelings to avoid causing offense.
When she asked about her performance, I pulled my punches.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversational Conflict
It's useful during arguments to prevent escalation by not saying harsh words.
Even in the heat of the debate, try to pull your punches.
Pro Tip 3/3Criticism Delivery
It softens the blow when giving feedback, combining honesty with sensitivity.
During peer reviews, it's often better to pull your punches.
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Tact
Use it when being gentle with someone's feelings to avoid causing offense.
When she asked about her performance, I pulled my punches.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversational Conflict
It's useful during arguments to prevent escalation by not saying harsh words.
Even in the heat of the debate, try to pull your punches.
Pro Tip 3/3Criticism Delivery
It softens the blow when giving feedback, combining honesty with sensitivity.
During peer reviews, it's often better to pull your punches.
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Tact
Use it when being gentle with someone's feelings to avoid causing offense.
When she asked about her performance, I pulled my punches.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversational Conflict
It's useful during arguments to prevent escalation by not saying harsh words.
Even in the heat of the debate, try to pull your punches.
Pro Tip 3/3Criticism Delivery
It softens the blow when giving feedback, combining honesty with sensitivity.
During peer reviews, it's often better to pull your punches.
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