bɪˈloʊ ðə bɛlt
Sports
neutral
intermediate
- Literally:
- a punch delivered below an opponent's waistline in boxing
What does "below the belt" mean?
unfair or cruel, especially taking advantage of someone's weakness
Examples
- Bringing up his divorce during the argument was really below the belt.
- The attack ad mentioning her children was considered below the belt by voters.
- I know we disagree, but that comment was below the belt.
Origin
From boxing rules established in the Marquess of Queensberry Rules (1867).
How to use it
Used to describe actions or words considered unfairly hurtful.
Similar expressions
low blow
unfair
underhanded
cheap shot
Opposites
fair
above board
sporting
Related idioms
- no pain no gain
Success requires hard work and sacrifice
- ball is in your court
It's your turn to take action or make a decision
- like riding a bicycle
A skill that, once learned, is never forgotten
- drop the ball
To fail to do something important; to make a mistake
- level playing field
A situation where everyone has an equal opportunity
- on the ball
Alert and competent
Use it in a practice answer
Try "below the belt" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.