Definition

Verb: 1. To hit or attack with great force and impact: This verb phrase means to deliver a very powerful, forceful, or damaging blow. It emphasizes the intensity and effectiveness of the strike.

Usage

The phrase "strike hard" is used to describe an action where something is hit or attacked with significant power. It is often used in both literal physical contexts and figurative contexts to describe a severe impact. * It typically follows the structure: [Subject] + strike(s) + [Object] + hard. * It can also be used intransitively (without a direct object) when the target is clear from context.

Examples

• Literal Physical Action:
  • The boxer struck his opponent hard on the jaw.
  • The storm struck the coastal town hard, causing widespread damage.
  • He struck the nail hard with the hammer.
• Figurative/Non-Physical Action:
  • The new economic sanctions are designed to strike hard at the regime's financial networks.
  • The tragic news struck the family hard.

Advanced Usage

• "to strike a hard blow": This is a synonymous construction that can be used interchangeably. It places slightly more emphasis on the single impactful event.
  • The court's decision struck a hard blow against corruption.
• Imperative Use: Can be used as a command or strong suggestion.
  • We must strike hard and fast to defeat this threat.

Variants and Related Words

• Strike (verb): The base verb meaning to hit or attack.
• Hard-hitting (adjective): Describes something (like a report, criticism, or campaign) that is direct, forceful, and impactful.
  • The journalist wrote a hard-hitting exposé.

Synonyms

• Hit hard: To deliver a powerful blow.
• Smash: To break or hit something violently.
• Pound: To hit repeatedly with great force.
• Knock: To strike something so that it moves or falls (as in the reference example: "He knocked the glass clear across the room").

Related Phrases

• Strike at the heart of: To attack the most central or vital part of something.
  • The investigation aims to strike at the heart of the criminal organization.
• Strike a chord: To cause an emotional reaction (different meaning, but a common phrase with "strike").
  • Her speech about unity struck a chord with the audience.

Verb

1. deliver a sharp blow or push :"He knocked the glass clear across the room"