Hit vs. Beat

These verbs are synonyms but have a subtle difference in their manner which we are going to discuss in this lesson.

What is the difference between 'hit' and 'beat'?

Both 'hit' and 'beat' refer to the act of touching or striking someone or something forcefully and quickly, with hand or using some object. However, 'beat' suggests a repetitive action, either to create a rhythm or to hurt a person. In this lesson, we are going to explore the differences between these two verbs.

Striking an Object

When talking about the act of hitting or beating an object, 'beat' indicates a repetitive or rhythmic action, while 'hit' mostly suggests a sudden blow or contact.

He hit the punching bag with all his strength.

He hit the ball with a powerful swing, sending it flying.

She beat the carpet with a broom to remove the dust.

Here, 'beat' suggests the action was repeated multiple times.

She beat the drum with steady strokes to produce a rhythmic sound.

Striking a Person

When talking about hitting or beating a person, 'beat' involves delivering multiple blows, often with the intention of causing harm.

She got angry and hit her brother on the arm.

'hit' can involve a milder blow that might not cause much harm.

The attacker brutally beat the victim in the assault.

'beat' suggests the victim was hit many times and deliberately.

Comments

Loading recaptcha
  • linkedin
  • linkedin
  • facebook
  • facebook
  • email

You might also like

Stop vs. Pause

bookmark
In order to add to your bookmarks you must sign in
These verbs are synonyms but they differ in terms of the duration they imply. Follow the lesson to find out more.

Buy vs. Purchase

bookmark
In order to add to your bookmarks you must sign in
These verbs are closely related but they differ in terms of their object and level of formality. This lesson will tell you about their differences.

Read vs. Study

bookmark
In order to add to your bookmarks you must sign in
These verbs are closely related but they differ in terms of their scope and intent. Follow the lesson to find out more.

Spend vs. Expend

bookmark
In order to add to your bookmarks you must sign in
'Spend' and 'expend' are synonyms but they have subtle difference in meaning which we are going to discuss in this lesson.

Follow vs. Chase

bookmark
In order to add to your bookmarks you must sign in
'Follow' and 'chase' are closely related but they differ in terms of speed and intent. Follow the lesson to find out more.

Grow vs. Expand

bookmark
In order to add to your bookmarks you must sign in
These verbs are synonyms but they differ in the type of object they refer to. Follow the lesson to find out about their similarity and difference.
LanGeek
Download LanGeek App