Thesaurus

thrash

Q: How is the word 'thrash' distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of thrash are brandish , flourish , swing , and wave . While all these words mean "to wield or cause to move to and fro or up and down," thrash suggests vigorous, abrupt, violent movement. // an infant thrashing his arms about

Q: When can 'brandish' be used instead of 'thrash'?

While the synonyms brandish and thrash are close in meaning, brandish implies threatening or menacing motion. // brandishing a knife

Q: When would 'flourish' be a good substitute for 'thrash'?

The words flourish and thrash are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, flourish suggests vigorous, ostentatious, graceful movement. // flourished the winning lottery ticket

Q: When might 'swing' be a better fit than 'thrash'?

Although the words swing and thrash have much in common, swing implies regular or uniform movement. // swing the rope back and forth

Q: Where would 'wave' be a reasonable alternative to 'thrash'?

In some situations, the words wave and thrash are roughly equivalent. However, wave usually implies smooth or continuous motion. // waving the flag

verb

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Synonyms & Antonyms of thrash

1 to defeat by a large margin

the incumbent has been thrashing his opponents for so long that there's never any real contest for the Senate seat

Synonyms for thrash

Words Related to thrash

sweep,
upset

edge (out),
nose out,
pip
[British]

Phrases Synonymous with thrash

2 to strike repeatedly with something long and thin or flexible

thrashed the poor horse with a riding crop

Synonyms for thrash

Words Related to thrash

pistol-whip

3 to strike repeatedly

the tree branches thrashed the sides of the house as the storm continued to rage

Synonyms for thrash

Words Related to thrash

Phrases Synonymous with thrash

beat up on

4 to make jerky or restless movements

in obvious pain, the wounded soldier thrashed about his cot

Synonyms for thrash

Words Related to thrash

pace

Near Antonyms for thrash

Frequently Asked Questions About thrash

How is the word thrash distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of thrash are brandish, flourish, swing, and wave. While all these words mean "to wield or cause to move to and fro or up and down," thrash suggests vigorous, abrupt, violent movement.

an infant thrashing his arms about