the cut and thrust

cut and thrust

1. A fencing technique that uses both the point and edge of the blade. Look at that cut and thrust! She's doing such a great job in this match!

2. A lively debate or argument; an enthusiastic exchange of ideas. I don't mind a cut and thrust with Amy—she always has a unique perspective, even if we clash sometimes. The cut and thrust of a debate sure gives me an adrenaline rush!

the cut and thrust

BRITISH

COMMON If you talk about the cut and thrust of a particular activity, you mean the lively, competitive and sometimes aggressive, way in which it is done. Why then does he want to go back into the cut and thrust of the airline business at an age when most men are happily retired? He seemed to actively enjoy the cut and thrust of politics. Note: You can also use the adjective cut-and-thrust. She has spent the past two years carving out a career as a production assistant in the cut-and-thrust world of advertising. Note: This expression comes from sword fighting.

the cut and ˈthrust (of something)

(British English) the lively exchange of opinions or ideas; competitiveness: He enjoys the cut and thrust of business.