a quick jab

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a quick jab" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a swift, sharp movement or action, often in the context of boxing or a sudden verbal remark. Example: "During the match, he delivered a quick jab that caught his opponent off guard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

He leads me from piece to piece with a quick jab or tug of my shirt.

The Guardian - Arts

Robinson was a fluid boxer who possessed a quick jab and knockout power in both hands.

The New York Times

The Conservatives' chief campaign strategist, George Osborne, made a quick jab, saying, "That's the thing about general elections.

The New York Times

If Rubio had come back with a quick jab at Christie's record as governor or his lowly standing in the polls, he could have escaped relatively unscathed.

The New Yorker

A light hitter with a quick jab, Harris, 26, of Newark, survived nine rounds and three opponents to take home the $100,000 prize.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, he added, "we are not ready to decriminalize homosexuality," making a quick jab about the death penalty in the United States and earning plaudits from Senegal's voluminous and voluble press.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

I have a quicker jab.

The New York Times - Sports

It is difficult enough keeping pace with an attacker and keeping your eye on the ball without also having to predict when they are going to plant one foot in the ground and tie themselves in knots to get a cross or a shot away, while it tends to be the case that the way the ball is met with a sharp, quick jab increases the power and potency of the delivery.

The Guardian - Sport

Before introducing the evening's honoree, Roseanne Barr, Lynch took a few quick jabs at the assembled roasters, which included Carrie Fisher, Katey Sagal and Ellen Barkin among others.

Huffington Post

Known for his quick jab and a lightning-fast wit, Ali seemed to be able to adapt his skills to any situation, be it to get himself into trouble or right back out again.

Huffington Post

"Pain," she sang in a tight little curlicue, then again as a quick declaratory jab, and again as a dizzying spiral.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a boxing technique, use "a quick jab" to denote a swift, direct punch. However, for broader contexts, consider alternatives like "a swift poke" or "a rapid thrust" for variety.

Common error

Avoid using "a quick jab" metaphorically in formal writing where precision is paramount. Opt for more descriptive terms like "a brief remark" or "a subtle criticism" to maintain clarity and avoid misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a quick jab" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject or object in a sentence, describing an action, either physical (as in boxing) or metaphorical (a brief remark). Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

8.3%

Less common in

Sports

8.3%

Science

8.3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a quick jab" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase, as validated by Ludwig. It effectively describes a swift, sharp movement or remark, finding frequent application in news, media, and sports contexts. While versatile, it's advisable to consider more formal alternatives in academic or business writing to maintain clarity. Ludwig's examples and analysis confirm its dual usage and provide context for its appropriate application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sharp poke

Combines "sharp" with "poke" to emphasize the abruptness and precision.

a swift poke

Replaces "jab" with "poke", emphasizing a brief, sharp thrust.

a brisk thrust

Uses "brisk" to describe the speed and efficiency of the movement.

a fast nudge

Substitutes "jab" with "nudge", indicating a gentle push or prompt.

a rapid thrust

Replaces "quick jab" with "rapid thrust", highlighting the speed and force of the movement.

a sudden prod

Changes "jab" to "prod", implying a more forceful or insistent push.

a light tap

Uses "tap" instead of "jab", suggesting a gentle and brief contact.

a fleeting dig

Replaces "jab" with "dig", indicating a more pointed or critical remark.

a timely interjection

Replaces "jab" with "interjection", referring to an interruption in dialogue.

a witty retort

Substitutes "jab" with "retort", emphasizing a clever and quick reply.

FAQs

How can I use "a quick jab" in a sentence?

You can use "a quick jab" to describe a swift punch in boxing, as in "The boxer landed "a quick jab" to his opponent's face", or a brief, often critical, remark, such as "The comedian delivered "a quick jab" at the politician".

What are some synonyms for "a quick jab"?

Some synonyms for "a quick jab" include "a swift poke", "a fast nudge", or "a rapid thrust", depending on the specific context you're aiming for.

Is it appropriate to use "a quick jab" in formal writing?

While "a quick jab" is grammatically correct, its use in formal writing depends on the context. For more formal situations, consider using more precise or descriptive alternatives like "a brief comment" or "a subtle critique" to avoid any potential ambiguity.

What's the difference between "a quick jab" and "a swift uppercut"?

"A quick jab" refers to a fast, direct punch, often used to maintain distance or set up other attacks. In contrast, "a swift uppercut" is an upward punch, typically aimed at the chin, designed to deliver a more powerful blow.