take a swing at?

what does “take a swing at” mean?
The judges take a swing at somebody. Does that mean the judges will get tough with him or doubt about his ability?
most of the time, I think it means try to heat somebody right?
thank you for your time.

Yes, to take a swing has the meaning of trying to strike or hit (not heat!) someone with the fist. The phrase is probably used in the figurative sense here. Some more context would be helpful.