below the belt

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But Jospin tripped up in his 2002 presidential rematch against Chirac, making a number of gaffes, including a swipe at his opponent's age that was seen as below the belt.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

But as Robinson and Cohen emphasized, no athlete “has been accused of using shots of hyaluronic acid below the belt for the purposes of cheating at ski jumping.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 7, 2026

It came with around 7 minutes to play, when USC guard Will McClendon was assessed a flagrant 2 for hitting WSU forward Isaac Jones below the belt.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 2, 2024

The other left Williams writhing in pain as an errant snap struck him below the belt.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 24, 2023

A bit below the belt, but then Dick deserved it, his confidence was like a kite that needed reeling in.

From "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote