"Below the belt" is a phrase that indicates an action or a statement that is considered unfair, inappropriate or underhanded.

This phrase originated in boxing as, according to the Marquis of Queensbury Rules, a boxer is only allowed to hit his opponent on the upper body. Hitting below the belt is not permissible as it is especially painful for the boxer. This translated to other sports and then to general usage as it it seen as being especially insulting and uncalled for.

Use Example - John was already struggling with dieting and when his friend called him fat, it seemed like he was really being hit below the belt.

Source Tags : Sports     Concept Tags : Unfairness