Below the belt
volume

Definizione e Significato di "below the belt"

below the belt
01

ingiusto o crudele

in a way that unfairly takes advantage of a person's weaknesses
below the belt definition and meaning
DisapprovingDisapproving
IdiomIdiom
InformalInformal

What is the origin of the idiom "below the belt" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "below the belt" can be traced back to the sport of boxing. In boxing, there are rules and regulations that define legal and illegal target areas for punches. Striking an opponent below the beltline, specifically hitting the groin area, is considered an illegal blow and is penalized. It implies that someone is hitting or attacking another person in a way that is unfair, unethical, or taking advantage of their vulnerabilities. Over time, the phrase has been adopted and used in various contexts beyond the world of boxing to describe any action or remark that is considered unfair or exploitative.

02

disregarding the rules (from the notion of an illegal low blow in boxing)

example
Esempio
Insulting a person's family during a debate is considered below the belt in a civilized discussion.
Bringing up her past failures during the argument was a below the belt move.
Employing personal attacks instead of addressing the issue at hand is resorting to below the belt strategies.
Spreading false rumors about his personal life was a below the belt tactic to tarnish his reputation.
Mocking someone's insecurities in front of others is hitting below the belt.
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