Hitting: meaning, definitions and examples

General action of coming into contact with something with force, can be used in various contexts without negative connotation.

• He kept hitting the nail until it went into the wood
• They were hitting the ball back and forth in the game

Hitting with force, often implying precision or intent, can be used metaphorically.

• He struck the ball with perfect timing
• The workers decided to strike for better conditions

Slapping or hitting with an open hand, typically has a lighter or less harmful connotation, can also relate to sounds made by hitting.

• She gave him a playful smack on the arm
• The book fell with a smack on the table

Specifically refers to striking with a closed fist, often used in the context of physical altercations or boxing.

• He threw a punch during the fight
• Boxers train to punch with precision and speed

This word is commonly used to describe physical contact with force, often in the present tense to show an ongoing action.

• The boxer is hitting the punching bag hard.
• Stop hitting your brother!

This word is used when referring to the act of firing a projectile, like a bullet or an arrow, often from a gun or a bow. It can also describe an attempt at something.

• The hunter took a shot at the deer.
• She shot an arrow straight into the target.

This word is used when describing a forceful impact or attack, and often has a more formal or dramatic tone. It can also refer to organized work stoppages.

• Lightning can strike without warning.
• The workers are on strike for better wages.

This word is used to describe a physical impact or the act of striking something. It can also be used metaphorically (e.g., reaching a target or encountering a situation).

• He hit the ball out of the park.
• The news of his promotion hit him by surprise.