hit below the belt
Meaning
To act unfairly or attack someone in an underhanded, overly personal way, especially in an argument.
Origin
From boxing: punches below the belt are illegal. The phrase broadened to mean any unfair, rule-breaking attack, especially a personal one in disputes.
Notes
Often used to criticize someone for an unfair personal attack in a dispute. Strongly disapproving; common in everyday and formal commentary.
Examples
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Bringing up her divorce during the meeting was a hit below the belt.
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I can handle criticism, but mocking my accent is hitting below the belt.
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His opponent hit below the belt by spreading rumors about his family.
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That joke about my health really hit below the belt.
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It felt like a hit below the belt when my boss blamed me for her mistake.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase: usually "hit below the belt" or "a below-the-belt hit"; can inflect (hits/hit/was hitting). Often used figuratively with subjects like "That was below the belt."
Synonyms
- fight dirty
- play dirty
- take a cheap shot
- make a low blow
Antonyms
- play fair
- fight fair
- take the high road