take a swing at

take a swing at (someone or something)

To attempt to hit someone or something with one's fist or an instrument in a broad, sweeping stroke. Bill didn't hear me coming up behind him, and he took a swing at me when I touched his shoulder. They arrested her for taking a swing at a police officer with a metal pipe. He stood taking swings at the golf ball for nearly five minutes before he finally hit it.See also: swing, take

take a swing at someone

to attempt to punch someone. He took a swing at me! Tom took a swing at Bob, but Bob ducked out of the way.See also: swing, take