fisticuffs

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The two men constantly circle each other, two clicks away from West Side Story–style fisticuffs.

From Slate • Apr. 14, 2025

When a onetime private detective sits down to question a former spy and confessed performance artist, you might expect some verbal fisticuffs, a bit of bobbing and weaving or defensive prickliness.

From New York Times • Oct. 19, 2023

And if players are wary of using payback fights as a deterrence tool, there’s little reason left for allowing fisticuffs.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 15, 2023

Nearly every beat, every quip, every character dynamic and every outbreak of fisticuffs has its clear antecedent.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2023

A still, small voice reminded me to return good for evil, reminded me that my plans for the future do not include fisticuffs or expulsion.

From "Bronx Masquerade" by Nikki Grimes