Meaning of thrash

[Katherine]

Synonym Search, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #113 "Synonyms for beat", question 10

We took John to the hospital because thugs ......... him while he was walking in the park late last night.

(a) thrashed
(b) hit
(c) knocked
(d) broke

Synonym Search, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #113 "Synonyms for beat", answer 10

We took John to the hospital because thugs thrashed him while he was walking in the park late last night.

Correct answer: (a) thrashed

Your answer was: incorrect
We took John to the hospital because thugs hit him while he was walking in the park late last night.
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Please, explain, why "thrashed" is correct here?

Thank you
Katherine

[Conchita]

To thrash means 'to beat violently', often with a stick.