ENGLISH
REFERENCE

punchy

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈpəntʃi// UK //pˈʌntʃi// punchy Dialect Informal

adj. describing something that is short, strong, and has a lot of energy. You use this for music, writing, or even a person's style that is very direct and powerful.

adj. characterised by a strong, forceful, or energetic quality; concise and impactful. Often describes creative works or physical movements that are direct and effective.


SIMPLE

The band plays punchy rock music with loud guitars.

CONTEXTUAL

The editor suggested making the headlines punchy to grab the reader's attention in a crowded news feed.

COMPLEX

The director's latest film features punchy dialogue and rapid cuts that keep the audience on the edge of their seats throughout the entire runtime.

Etymology 1

From punch + -y.

Etymology 2

From punch (“short fat person”) + y.

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