one-two

noun

ˈwən-ˈtü 

-ˌtü

1

: a combination of two quick blows in rapid succession in boxing

especially : a left jab followed at once by a hard blow with the right hand

2

or one-two punch : two forces combining to produce a marked effect

Examples of one-two in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Democratic leaders who worry about the two Republicans finishing one-two in the primary also will be pressuring the five at the bottom to drop out, so that the party’s voters can coalesce around the few at the top. —Dan Walters, Mercury News, 27 Feb. 2026

Then there’s the one-two gut-punch that endures for Motta’s family and admirers. —Brad Townsend, Dallas Morning News, 26 Feb. 2026

But leading the way are sophomores Kyle Jones and Brendan Lawson, forming a dynamic one-two punch at the top of the Gators’ lineup. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 26 Feb. 2026

Chicago-area customers have been hit by a one-two punch of higher delivery rates charged by utility companies and spiking energy costs, which are passed through to suppliers. —Robert Channick, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1809, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for one-two

• amadou
• avenue
• ballyhoo
• baraboo
• barbecue
• barbeque
• bugaboo
• cabildo
• caribou
• cockatoo
• detinue
• devalue