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Phrasal verbs "fight back" vs "hit back"

Differences between fight back and hit back

Fight back and hit back are similar in that they both refer to responding to an attack or criticism, but fight back implies a more aggressive response, while hit back suggests a more measured or defensive response.

Meanings and Definitions: fight back vs hit back

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Fight back

  • 1Defend yourself, resist an attack.

    The army attacked the town and the inhabitants FOUGHT BACK fiercely.

  • 2Try to control and emotion and keep it hidden.

    He tried to FIGHT BACK the tears when he heard the news of her death.

Hit back

  • 1Attack or criticise.

    The president HIT BACK at her critics in a speech last night.

Usage Examples: fight back, hit back in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

fight back

Example

When the bully tried to take his lunch, he decided to fight back.

Example

She fights back whenever someone tries to take advantage of her.

hit back

Example

She hit back at her critics during the interview.

Example

He hits back at the negative comments on social media.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fight back

stand up for oneself

To defend oneself or one's beliefs against an attack or criticism.

Example

She decided to stand up for herself and fight back against the unfair treatment she was receiving at work.

push back

To resist or challenge an opposing force or idea.

Example

The community decided to push back against the proposed development project that would harm the environment.

retaliate

To respond to an attack or injury with a similar action.

Example

He decided to retaliate against the bully by standing up to him and reporting his behavior to the school authorities.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hit back

respond in kind

To respond to an attack or criticism with a similar action or response.

Example

Instead of escalating the argument, he decided to respond in kind and calmly explain his point of view.

counterattack

To respond to an attack with an attack of one's own.

Example

The army decided to counterattack the enemy forces after being attacked unexpectedly.

defend oneself

To protect oneself from an attack or criticism.

Example

She had to defend herself against false accusations made by her colleagues at work.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “fight”

Phrasal Verbs with “hit”

Differences in fight back vs hit back: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: fight back or hit back?

Both fight back and hit back are commonly used in spoken and written English, but hit back is slightly more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fight back and hit back

Both fight back and hit back are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of fight back and hit back

The tone of fight back and hit back can differ based on context. Fight back often carries a more intense or emotional tone, while hit back typically has a more controlled or defensive tone.

fight back & hit back: Synonyms and Antonyms

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