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general::
Phrase(s): lift a hand (against someone or something) [and] raise a hand (against someone or something)
Fig. to threaten (to strike) someone or something. (Often in the negative. The a hand can be replaced with one’s hand.) • She’s very peaceful. She wouldn’t lift a hand against a fly. • Would you raise your hand against your own brother?
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs