cheapshots
Unfair verbal jabs
Cheapshots are unfair attacks that exploit vulnerability or catch someone off guard.
The term comes from sports, where a cheapshot is a foul blow delivered when an opponent isn't ready or the referee isn't looking.
The meaning extends to verbal jabs that hit below the belt: His speech was full of cheapshots at his predecessor.
Usually spelled as two words: cheap shots.
Insulting provocation
sneer · jeer · gibe · quip · zinger · potshot · wisecrack · cutting remark
Betray someone's trust
- sucker punchUnanticipated strike without warning
- blindsideSurprise with unexpected force
- ambushSurprise strike from concealment
- low blowUnfair, unsportsmanlike strike
sneak attack · cowardly · devious · sneaky · sly · furtive · conniving · duplicitous
Offensive or illegal
- unsportsmanlikeContrary to athletic ethics
- penaltyPunishment for wrongdoing
- violationBreaking of rules
- flagrantShockingly conspicuous and wrong
dirty play · below the belt · late hit · bush league · unprofessional · gamesmanship · misconduct · infraction
Aggressive repeated intimidation
- harassmentAggressive, unwanted targeting
- intimidationDeliberate fear-inducing pressure
- crueltyDeliberate harm-causing disposition
- meannessSpiteful, unkind disposition
nastiness · spite · malice · antagonism · aggression · provocation · picking on · targeting
taunt
Insulting provocation
put-down · sneer · jeer · gibe · quip · zinger · potshot · wisecrack · cutting remark · low blow
backstab
Betray someone's trust
- sucker punchUnanticipated strike without warning
- blindsideSurprise with unexpected force
- ambushSurprise strike from concealment
low blow · sneak attack · cowardly · devious · sneaky · sly · furtive · conniving · duplicitous · dishonest
foul
Offensive or illegal
- unsportsmanlikeContrary to athletic ethics
- penaltyPunishment for wrongdoing
- violationBreaking of rules
flagrant · dirty play · below the belt · late hit · bush league · unprofessional · gamesmanship · misconduct · infraction · disqualification
bullying
Aggressive repeated intimidation
- harassmentAggressive, unwanted targeting
- intimidationDeliberate fear-inducing pressure
- crueltyDeliberate harm-causing disposition
meanness · nastiness · spite · malice · antagonism · aggression · provocation · picking on · targeting · victimizing
cheapshotsfair play
Honorable conduct in games
sportsmanship · chivalry · good sportsmanship · gentlemanly conduct · square dealing