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Meaning of coup de main | Babel Free

Noun CEFR C1
ku də meɪn

Definitions

A sudden development or action carried out to surprise an enemy.

Equivalents

Deutsch Handstreich
Français coup de main

Examples

“That which of all things he most dreaded was that he should be out-generalled by Mr. Slope; and just at present it appeared probable that Mr. Slope would turn his flank, steal a march on him, cut off his provisions, carry his strong town by a coup de main, and at last beat him thoroughly in a regular pitched battle.”

CEFR level

C1
Advanced
This word is part of the CEFR C1 vocabulary — advanced level.
See all C1 English words →

See also

coup de maitre coup de savate coup de théâtre coup stick coup Turc coup-de-grace

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