Bandy words

Definitions

• to engage in a verbal argument or disagreement
  When two or more people exchange heated words or insults in a back-and-forth manner, often in a playful or competitive manner.

• to use clever or witty language
  To engage in a playful or lighthearted verbal exchange, often using clever or witty language.

Examples of Bandy words

• After the long meeting, the two politicians came outside to bandy words in front of the reporters.

  Both politicians were arguing or exchanging words aggressively in a public setting for reporters to witness.

• They often bandy words over the smallest of issues; it's like they enjoy the conflict.

  They frequently engage in arguments or disputes, even over trivial matters, suggesting they may find some pleasure in the act of arguing.

• "Don't bandy words with someone who refuses to listen," the teacher advised the debating team.

  The teacher counseled the students not to waste time arguing with a person who is not open to other perspectives.

• You shouldn't bandy words with the referee; it's his job to make the decisions, not debate them.

  It is pointless to argue with the referee as their role is to enforce the rules, not to discuss or argue about their decisions.

• I'm not one to bandy words; I prefer to settle my disagreements peacefully.

  The speaker favors resolving conflicts calmly and without engaging in heated arguments or debates.

• The boardroom was tense as shareholders began to bandy words about the new policy.

  Shareholders were engaged in a spirited or possibly contentious discussion regarding the new policy.

• The internet is rife with people looking to bandy words with strangers.

  Online platforms are full of individuals eager to engage in arguments or heated discussions with others they do not know personally.

• At the family reunion, avoiding topics like politics and religion was key to not bandy words with opinionated relatives.

  Steering clear of sensitive subjects was essential to prevent arguments with relatives who have strong and potentially conflicting viewpoints.

Conclusion

The idiom "bandy words" typically refers to a verbal exchange between two or more people, often in a heated or playful manner. It can also be used to describe the use of clever or witty language in a conversation or argument.

While the intention behind the use of this idiom is often to engage in a verbal dispute or exchange, it can also be used in a more positive sense to describe a lively and entertaining conversation. This highlights the versatility of the phrase and how it can be used in different contexts.

Origin of "Bandy words"

The origin of the idiom "bandy words" is believed to come from the game of bandy, a predecessor to modern-day hockey. In this game, players would hit a small ball back and forth using wooden sticks. This back-and-forth motion is thought to have inspired the use of the phrase "bandy words" to describe a verbal exchange between two or more people.

The earliest recorded use of the phrase can be traced back to the 16th century, where it was used in a play by English playwright John Heywood. Over time, the phrase became more commonly used and has since become a popular idiom in the English language.

In conclusion, the idiom "bandy words" originated from a popular game and has evolved to be used in various contexts to describe a verbal exchange. Its origins may have been specific to a particular activity, but its usage has expanded to encompass a range of verbal interactions.