1 B2 idiomatic informal
To mock, criticise, or attack people or groups with less power, privilege, or status than oneself.
"Critics accused the comedian of punching down by making jokes at the expense of homeless people."
inseparable
punch down
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To direct criticism, mockery, or attacks toward people or groups who have less power or status than oneself.
In plain English
To make fun of or attack people who are weaker or less powerful than you.
What does "punch down" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
In boxing, to hit someone below your weight class — metaphorically extended to targeting those with less power.
Actually means
To make fun of or attack people who are weaker or less powerful than you.
Usage tip
Very commonly used in discussions about comedy, social media, and politics. Considered poor form — 'punching down' is broadly seen as unfair and unkind. Opposite of 'punch up'. Relatively recent usage, mostly in cultural criticism.
Words that pair with "punch down"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
comedy joke humour privilege power comedian politician
How to conjugate "punch down"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
punch down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
punches down
he/she/it
Past simple
punched down
yesterday
Past participle
punched down
have + pp
-ing form
punching down
continuous
Hear "punch down" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "punch down" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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