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Region: General | Usage example: The accusation hit below the belt and ruined the debate.

Hit below the belt

Meaning

Use unfair or unethical tactics.

Usage

Used when condemning shoddy behavior.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Boxing rules forbid punches below the belt.

Widely adopted in the 20th century to criticize politics and sports.

Related Idioms

Belt and braces

Excessively cautious, applying redundant safeguards.

Under your belt

Gained experience or completed.

Tighten your belt

Reduce spending when money is short.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.