cut and thrust

noun

1. fencing using both the blade and the point of a sword
2. (in argument, debate, etc) a lively and spirited exchange of ideas or opinions

Example Sentences

Her shrewd question, uttered almost unthinkingly in the cut-and-thrust of repartee, had got home somewhere on an old wound.

From Project Gutenberg

The sword was carried on the right thigh, and was a short cut-and-thrust weapon, like that which was used by the Spaniards.

From Project Gutenberg

And finally, there was a cut-and-thrust sword of alarming dimensions.

From Project Gutenberg

The word “Broad-sword” may be taken to include all kinds of cut-and-thrust swords.

From Project Gutenberg

I had none myself—nothing save a light cut-and-thrust sword.

From Project Gutenberg