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downgrade - To reduce to a lower level of usefulness, status, or importance.

When the policeman broke his arm, his activity was downgraded to a desk job.

noun

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ruffian - A bully, someone who is violent toward others

Stalin maintained control by using an army of ruffians who would treat violently anyone who did not cooperate.

verb

See noun

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retreat - To pull back or leave a position, often due to pressure, danger, or the need for rest.

After the argument, she decided to retreat to her room to calm down.

verb

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gawk - To stare at someone in an rude and unbelieving way

Linda and her friends couldn't help but gawk at their favorite movie star when she arrived at the movie opening.

adjective

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lethal - Capable of causing death; deadly or fatal.

The venom of that snake is so lethal that one bite can be fatal.

verb

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smother - To cover something completely

The robber smothered the lone occupant of the house with a pillow, in order to give him more time to find and steal the valuable jewels.

verb

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clobber - To hit (someone) hard

Muhammad Ali would frequently clobber his opponents until they couldn't get up.

verb

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inflict - To cause someone to experience harm, pain, or suffering.

She didn’t mean to inflict emotional pain, but her harsh words hurt him deeply.

verb

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swat - To hit or attempt to hit something, especially an insect, with a sharp blow from a flat object

After being annoyed by its buzzing, Morgan swatted the pesky fly with the fly swatter.

noun

See verb

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puncture - A sharp or sudden blow or impact, often causing damage to something like a tire, balloon, or container.

She noticed a puncture in her tire after driving over a sharp object on the road.

verb

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scald - To injure with very hot liquid or steam

A common danger in households is the possibility that children can be scalded with unattended hot water.

verb

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stun - To knock unconscious, or to be put into a dazed or semiconscious state

The boxer was stunned by his opponent's powerful punch to his face.