absorb a blow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "absorb a blow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is metaphorically or literally taking a hit or facing a challenge without being significantly harmed. Example: "In the boxing match, he managed to absorb a blow to the head without losing his balance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The truth, which was both good and bad for the supersonic heavyweight, was that Ali could absorb a blow as well as any fighter in history.

The New York Times

But Oudin, unseeded again this year, hardly looked like a demoralized 18-year-old against Savchuk, even if the catchword on her sneakers is now "Courage" instead of last year's "Believe," a choice that might make it seem as if she were bracing to absorb a blow rather than relive a joy ride.

The New York Times

"I'm going to tell them to stay low, and get ready," he told me, taking up the physical stance of a fighter ready to absorb a blow, or deliver one; it seems like good advice even for those of us not treading the boards).

The New Yorker

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Vice

Be strong, and be prepared to absorb a blow.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"It is more like the way a boxer absorbs a blow from his enemy".

The Guardian - Arts

Alfredsson absorbed a blow to the head from the Rangers rookie forward Carl Hagelin at 10 32 of the second period.

The New York Times

Alfredsson absorbed a blow to the head from Hagelin at 10 32 of the second period of Ottawa's 3-2 ovictory victory.

The New York Times

Slap Shots The Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson absorbed a blow to the head from the Rangers rookie forward Carl Hagelin at 10 32 of the second period Saturday.

The New York Times - Sports

Koolhaas requested that they represented the ways in which they have absorbed modernity, "as a boxer absorbs a blow", over the past century.

The Guardian - Arts

The Blazers absorbed a blow in the final minute when LaMarcus Aldridge suddenly came up limping and headed to the locker room with what appeared to be a left ankle injury.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "absorb a blow", consider the context. If you want to emphasize resilience, this phrase is suitable. If you want to focus on lessening the impact, alternatives like "cushion the blow" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "absorb a blow" when the impact is completely negated. "Absorb" implies some effect is felt, even if it's managed. If there's no impact at all, consider phrases like "deflect" or "avoid completely".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "absorb a blow" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the ability to withstand or mitigate a negative impact. Ludwig AI confirms that this usage is correct and applicable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "absorb a blow" is a versatile way to describe the ability to withstand negative impacts. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in news and media. When using "absorb a blow", consider the context and desired nuance, as alternatives like "withstand an impact" or "weather a storm" may be more appropriate depending on the specific situation. The key is to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the degree to which the impact is managed or mitigated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

withstand an impact

Focuses on resisting the force of a hit or shock.

weather a storm

Emphasizes enduring through a difficult period or challenge.

take the hit

Highlights accepting the negative consequences or damage.

cushion the impact

Implies reducing the severity of a negative event.

mitigate the damage

Focuses on lessening the harmful effects.

endure hardship

Highlights the act of persevering through difficult conditions.

bounce back from adversity

Emphasizes recovery after facing challenges.

survive a crisis

Focuses on managing to live or exist through a dangerous event.

ride out the punches

Implies dealing with repeated attacks or setbacks.

shoulder the burden

Highlights accepting responsibility or hardship.

FAQs

How can I use "absorb a blow" in a sentence?

You can use "absorb a blow" to describe the capacity to withstand negative effects or impacts, either physically or metaphorically. For instance, "The company managed to absorb a blow from the economic downturn".

What are some alternatives to "absorb a blow"?

Some alternatives include "withstand an impact", "weather a storm", or "take the hit", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "absorb a blow" formal or informal?

"Absorb a blow" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more common in news and media or general discussions.

What does it mean to "absorb a blow"?

To "absorb a blow" means to withstand or mitigate a negative impact, challenge, or setback without being overcome by it. It implies a degree of resilience and the ability to continue despite the difficulty.