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draw first blood

referring to the first participant(s) in a game, contest, debate, etc. to gain an advantage over their opponent; to score first points in any competition

Etymology:

  • Used since the 17th century to figuratively mean, first to score, it obviously alludes to the first shedding of blood in a sword fight, or the initial wound or casualty in any physical skirmish or conflict.
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Scoreless for nearly two periods, the Swedish team drew first blood to break the tie in the hockey game.

Submitted by JokerGem on January 16, 2023

Modified by JokerGem on January 16, 2023

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    "draw first blood." Phrases.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Mar. 2024. <https://www.phrases.com/phrase/draw-first-blood_63287>.

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