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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

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 also

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