Boxing (noun) is a sport where two individuals in gloves fight in an enclosed ring and with particular rules. It is among the oldest combat sports in the world and it is popular.
How to Pronounce “Boxing”?
Audio (UK):
Audio (US):
Begin with a distinct bok sound (such as in box), and close with a brief sing sound. It is ks and the emphasis is made on the first syllable: BOX-ing.
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“Boxing” in Sentences: How It Appears in Daily Conversation and Texts
Some of the examples of the use of boxing in daily life and various expressions are presented below.
What Are Synonyms for the Word “Boxing”?
Boxing has synonyms that show various faces of the sport, such as fighting, training and competition.
Related nouns: pugilism fighting sparring ring sport combat sport
Synonyms (contextual): hand-to-hand combat
Common collocations: professional boxing boxing gloves boxing ring boxing training
“Boxing” Word Formation and Description in Context
The word “boxing” can be used together with other parts of speech to describe actions, events, or details of the sport:
With adjectives: amateur boxing competitive boxing intense boxing Olympic boxing
With verbs: practice boxing watch boxing win a boxing match
With nouns (noun + noun): boxing gym boxing coach boxing ring boxing tournament
Idioms and Phrases with “Boxing”
“Boxing” in English does not have direct idioms. Below are some common sayings and phrases with words connected to this kind of sport that are often used by native speakers:
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To be on the ropes describes a state of being near failure or defeat of a person or situation.
The company was on the ropes after losing its biggest client. -
To roll with the punches means to adapt to difficult situations and keep going despite obstacles.
Life can be unpredictable, so it’s important to learn to roll with the punches. -
To go down swinging means to fight hard until the very end, even if defeat seems certain.
She knew the odds were against her, but she went down swinging in the debate.
Test Yourself with a “Boxing” Mini-Quiz!
Test your knowledge and speaking and writing skills of the word “boxing” in speech and writing through this short, interactive quiz.
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“Boxing” Word in Other Languages
Dive into the linguistic variety of Europe and learn how to say “boxing” in other languages.
| Language | Word for “Boxing” |
|---|---|
Spanish |
Boxeo |
French |
Boxe |
German |
Boxen |
Unusual Facts You May Not Know About “Boxing”
The easiest way to see the “boxing” definition from a fresh angle is to explore a few curious and surprising facts about the sport. The following insights might make you view it differently:
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Boxing was not necessarily about gloves.
Boxing was bare-knuckled in its primitive types. The wearing of gloves was not compulsory until late 1867 with the introduction of the Marquess of Queensberry Rules, which made modern boxing what it is today. -
The longest boxing match lasted over seven hours.
In 1893, Andy Bowen and Jack Burke had a Guinness World Record match that lasted 7 hours and 19 minutes before it was called a draw and had 110 rounds. The two warriors were in a state of absolute exhaustion, a test of human perseverance. -
Boxing was once part of the Ancient Olympic Games
This sport was initially played in 688 BC in ancient Greece, where the wrestlers had their hands covered with strips of leather as opposed to using gloves. It went back to the current Olympics in 1904 in St. Louis. -
Punching by boxers is as powerful as hitting a small automobile.
The blow of a professional boxer can have a force of up to 1,000 pounds, which is about the size of being struck by a small car traveling 30 mph. That is why a defence is as essential as an attack in the ring.
Insightful Quotes Exploring the Idea of “Boxing”
In sports, philosophy, and life, “boxing” often symbolizes struggle, perseverance, and the will to overcome obstacles. The following quotations show how the sport reflects strength, discipline, and the human spirit.
— Mike Tyson
Explanation: Tyson reminds us that life, much like boxing, tests plans in real time. True resilience is revealed when things go off-script, and we’re forced to adapt under pressure.
— Muhammad Ali
Explanation: Ali captures the essence of boxing’s grace and power. His words describe how intelligence, timing, and strategy can triumph over brute strength.
— Muhammad Ali
Explanation: This quote highlights that success in boxing, and in life, is built through unseen effort and persistence. The real victory comes from dedication long before the spotlight shines.
