American Dictionary

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Definition strike at in American English

strike at phrasal verb

[transitive] phrasal verb
1

to try to hit someone or something with your hand or a weapon

Example

He struck at me several times but never hurt me.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

to try to hit or kick something such as a ball with your hand, foot, or a piece of sports equipment

Example

He struck wildly at the ball and missed completely.

Synonyms and related words
2

to make a sudden violent or illegal attack on someone or something

Example

The rebels struck at government camps that night.

Synonyms and related words
3

to be likely to seriously damage or destroy something important

Example

This scandal strikes at the heart of the company's role as a responsible employer.

Synonyms and related words
Definition strike at in American English