Pronunciation: [ba͡ɪ blˈə͡ʊz] (IPA) 
The word "by blows" is spelled with two words, not as one word "byblows." In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /baɪ bləʊz/. The first syllable pronounced as "baɪ" sounds like "by" in English, while the second syllable pronounced as "bləʊz" sounds like "blows" with a long "o" vowel sound. "By blows" means "an unexpected occurrence" or "a side effect," and it is commonly used in literature and journalism.
By blows refers to minor or incidental impacts or consequences resulting from a larger event or conflict. It is often used to describe secondary or indirect outcomes that may occur alongside or as a result of a main or primary occurrence. The term is derived from the imagery of a physical altercation, where the primary blows are the main punches exchanged between two opponents, while the by blows are the less significant or peripheral punches delivered by bystanders or by accident.
In a figurative sense, by blows can be applied to various situations. For example, in a heated debate between two politicians, the by blows could refer to the unintended consequences of their argument, such as damaging the reputation of their party or inciting public unrest. Similarly, in a natural disaster, the primary blow might be the initial impact, such as an earthquake or hurricane, while the by blows could describe subsequent effects like secondary tremors or aftershocks.
By blows can also be used to describe less significant or indirect impacts on an individual level. For instance, during a major life event like a job promotion, the by blows could include jealousy or resentment from colleagues who were also competing for the position. In this context, the term suggests that while not the central focus, these secondary repercussions can still have a notable influence on the overall situation or outcome.
Overall, by blows are peripheral or subordinate impacts that occur alongside or as a result of a larger event or conflict.
The term by-blow originated around the 15th century and was primarily used to refer to a child born out of wedlock or illegitimately. The word by in by-blow is derived from Old English bi, meaning near or at the side of. It suggests that the child is born beside the main relationship or outside the socially acceptable bounds of marriage. Blow in this context refers to the act of sexual intercourse or conception. Hence, by-blow came to signify a child conceived by the side or outside a legalized union. The term is now considered archaic or obsolete, with contemporary language favoring terms such as illegitimate child or child born out of wedlock.
