Punch up

usgb
noun

A fight or heated argument.

There was a bit of a punch up at the bar and the police had to be called.
Visual representation of "punch up" - A fight or heated argument

Often appears as...

  • have a punch up
  • start a punch up

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial,Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "punch up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Verb Nuance

Used figuratively to mean a conflict, not always physical.

Illustration for Verb Nuance
The debate turned into quite the punch up.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Usage

More common in casual conversation than in formal settings.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
Avoid using 'punch up' in formal essays.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Cultural Colloquialism

Familiar to UK, Australia, and NZ speakers; might confuse others.

Illustration for Cultural Colloquialism
He didn't understand when I said 'punch up'.
Visual representation of the word "Punch up"

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