cheapshot
Coward's verbal jab
A cheapshot is an unfair attack—physical or verbal—that exploits vulnerability or catches someone off guard.
In sports, it's a foul blow delivered when the opponent can't defend themselves.
More broadly, any mean-spirited remark or action that takes advantage of weakness: That comment about his divorce was a cheapshot.
Also written as two words.
Offensive remark or action
- tauntInsulting provocation
- jeerVocal expression of scorn
- sneerScornful expression
- mockeryScornful ridicule or travesty
barb · dig · put-down · zinger · burn · slam · jab · potshot
Offensive or illegal
- unsportsmanlikeContrary to athletic ethics
- flagrantShockingly conspicuous and wrong
- blindsideSurprise with unexpected force
- illegalForbidden by statute
penalty · violation · retaliation · sucker-punch · targeting · clipping · elbowing
Stealthily deceptive
- covertIntentionally concealed
- deceitfulInclined to mislead others
- manipulativeSkilled at controlling others
- slyCleverly deceptive
dishonest · unscrupulous · shady · conniving · scheming · crafty · backstabbing · unethical
Surprise strike from concealment
- blindsidedSurprised by unforeseen impact
- sucker-punchBlow dealt without warning
- unexpectedNot anticipated beforehand
- suddenOccurring without prior notice
insult
Offensive remark or action
mockery · barb · dig · put-down · zinger · burn · slam · jab · potshot · sarcasm
foul
Offensive or illegal
- unsportsmanlikeContrary to athletic ethics
- flagrantShockingly conspicuous and wrong
- blindsideSurprise with unexpected force
illegal · penalty · violation · retaliation · sucker-punch · targeting · clipping · elbowing
sneaky
Stealthily deceptive
- covertIntentionally concealed
- deceitfulInclined to mislead others
- manipulativeSkilled at controlling others
sly · dishonest · unscrupulous · shady · conniving · scheming · crafty · backstabbing · unethical · treacherous
ambush
Surprise strike from concealment
- blindsidedSurprised by unforeseen impact
- sucker-punchBlow dealt without warning
- unexpectedNot anticipated beforehand
sudden · unforeseen · caught-off-guard · unprovoked · bushwhack
cheapshotfair play
Honorable conduct in games
sportsmanship · clean hit · fair dealing · good sportsmanship · ethical conduct
cheapshotfair play
Honorable conduct in games
sportsmanship · above-board · clean hit · gentlemanly conduct · good faith