Hit out

"To hit out" is a phrasal verb meaning to criticise someone or something strongly, which in this case, is the government.

And the word "apathy" is a lack of interest at taking action or an unwillingness to do something, especially over an important matter.

Let's say the labourers criticise the government strongly for ignoring their hardship (the result of the higher cost of living).

Many countries hit out at the Burmese military government's slow action in helping its people who desperately need food and medical supplies.

The other day I was introduced to the mother of the new kid in my son's class and I hit it off with her immediately; I mean I like her and we became friends immediately.

Have you ever used a hammer? And with a hammer, how do you hit a nail? …Yes, hit the nail on the head. "Hit the nail on the head" is also an expression; it means to describe exactly what is causing a problem or a situation.

No need for a nice intro, Jake; just hit the nail on the head so we won't miss the point. 

But unfortunately, Jake did not do as he was told so his boss hit the ceiling when Jake got everybody confused with his elaborate introduction. His boss was extremely angry. You can also say, "hit the roof" for the same meaning.

Jack hit the ceiling/roof when his son came home blind drunk and did not know where he had left his Dad's car.

The most effective way to get to somebody is of course to hit them where it hurts, even if it is not pleasant at all. If you hit somebody where it hurts, you get them at a spot where they are very vulnerable and where they become very upset, very easily.

Just ask Susan about her married-life and you'll hit her where it hurts. She did everything she could to make her parents accept her college sweetheart only for him to walk out on her with her sister.

Complete the sentences with the expressions explained

1. Jesse ......with the new neighbour's children and spent most of the weekend playing with them.

2. Academics ......at the educational reform; they said it gives children the wrong attitude towards learning.

3. You sure know how to ...... . How could you ask him how he liked his new job, knowing fully well that he has just got laid off.

4. Dave ...... telling the parents that by allowing their children to go to bed late, they can't get up early enough to reach school on time.

5. Charles ...... when he realised he had been cheated.

Answers: 1. hit it off, 2. hit out, 3. hit where it hurts, 4. hit the nail on the head, 5. hit the ceiling/roof

By Parnsap Yomanage