blow-by-blow

[ bloh-bahy-bloh ]

adjective

1. precisely detailed; describing every minute detail and step:

   a blow-by-blow account of the tennis match; a blow-by-blow report on the wedding ceremony.

noun

1. a blow-by-blow account.

blow-by-blow

adjective

1. prenominal explained in great detail

   a blow-by-blow account of the argument

Word History and Origins

Origin of blow-by-blow¹

An Americanism dating back to 1930–35

Idioms and Phrases

Described in minute detail, as in Tell me about last night's party, blow by blow . This term originated in radio broadcasts during the 1930s, in which the sportscaster gave a detailed account of each punch struck in a boxing match. It soon was transferred to a detailed account of anything at all.

Example Sentences

For those seeking a blow-by-blow account of the conflict, this book will more than satisfy.

From The Daily Beast

In the Vietnam era, the public often participated in such debates, because we received blow-by-blow accounts from the battlefield.

From The Daily Beast

He gives a blow-by-blow account of a mission that ends in tragedy for some of the soldiers but in triumph for Karzai.

From The Daily Beast

A blow-by-blow guide to the four stages of market-related sexual dysfunction.

From The Daily Beast

The next half hour covered a blow-by-blow account of Paul Brennan's efforts to have the minor restored to him.

From Project Gutenberg

In fact, I got a blow-by-blow description of your entire escape from them.

From Project Gutenberg