What does parrying mean?
Parring means turning aside an attack, question, or other challenge rather than meeting it directly. In its literal sense, the word usually describes a movement in fencing, boxing, or another form of combat in which a blow is deflected. It also has a well-established figurative use: a person may parry a probing question, deflect criticism, or avoid an opponent's move in a debate or business negotiation. The word often carries a sense of skill, quick thinking, or controlled defense, although it can also imply that the issue or danger has been avoided rather than resolved. As a noun, parrying refers to the defensive act itself and is especially common in descriptions of combat, diplomacy, debate, and negotiation.
To deflect or evade a blow, attack, question, or challenge.
"The boxer parried the punch at the last moment."
The figurative sense, especially in relation to questions, criticism, and argumentative attacks, is fully established in formal and informal English.
The act of deflecting or evading an attack, question, or challenge.
"His expert parrying of the questions impressed the panel."
This use is less frequent than the verb but is standard in both literal and figurative contexts.
From defending a sword blow to answering a loaded question, parrying describes the quick art of turning an attack back on its source.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does parrying come from?
The word appeared in late Middle English in the sense of defending or warding off an attack. It developed through Anglo-French from Old French parer, meaning to ward off or protect. The French word is commonly traced to Latin parare, a verb associated with preparing or arranging, although the development of its defensive meaning was distinctive.
How parrying is actually used
The verb is most familiar in contexts involving combat, fencing, or figurative attacks such as questions and criticism. As a gerund, it can also refer to the practice or activity of defending against attacks.
Easily confused with parrying
“Parry” is the base verb and noun, while “parrying” is its present-participle and gerund form.
“Predominate” means to be more numerous or influential, whereas “parry” means to deflect or evade an attack or challenge.