struck someone when they were down
Attacked the fallen
To strike someone when they were down is to attack or criticize a person already suffering or disadvantaged.
The image is of kicking someone who has fallen: After he lost his job, his ex-wife struck him when he was down by filing for full custody.
The phrase emphasizes the cruelty of exploiting vulnerability rather than showing mercy.
- opportunismExploiting circumstances for gain
- bullyingAggressive repeated intimidation
- kickingStriking with foot
- humiliationLoss of dignity
- rubbing salt in the woundIntensifying existing pain
adding insult to injury · twisting the knife · battery · assault · injustice · unfairness · shaming · betrayal · cruelty · cheap shot · sucker punch · dishonor · exploitation · taking advantage · immorality · piling on · malice · mean spirited