For many years the families of "king-hit" victims have
argued that this term conveys a false measure of admiration and
implies manliness on the part of the attacker. Demands for a new
phrase to describe such despicable one-punch surprise attacks have
led to "king-hit" being replaced by the phrase
"coward punch", reflecting the cowardly act that it
is.
Use of term "coward punch" intended to deter
assailants
Language is a powerful tool – in society and in law.
Replacing the term "king-hit" with "coward
punch" means that assailants acquire a public label which
casts them in a negative light.
It's hoped that this terminology will make would-be
attackers have second thoughts before committing this terrible act,
which can lead to serious injury and even death.
