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Definitions

cheap shot

NOUN
defamation
Synonyms
STRONGEST
denigration disparagement
STRONG
aspersion calumny depreciation detraction dirt dump dynamite hit knock lie mud obloquy opprobrium scorcher slam slime slur smear tale traducement vilification
WEAK
backbiting backstabbing belittlement black eye character assassination dirty laundry low-down dirty slap in face
Antonyms
STRONG
compliment flattery praise
WEAK
approval commendation exaltation
NOUN
insult
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abuse affront blasphemy contempt disgrace disrespect indignity invective libel outrage put-down scorn shame slander slap slight snub taunt
STRONG
aspersion contumely derision despite discourtesy disdainfulness ignominy impertinence impudence incivility insolence mockery obloquy offense opprobrium rudeness scurrility slam superciliousness vilification vituperation
WEAK
black eye slap in the face unpleasantry
Antonyms
STRONGEST
approval compliment delight esteem flattery honor praise regard respect reverence
STRONG
happiness humility kindness politeness

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 in doing so, "they would have made this tenuous link between fluoride and Aimee Lou's teeth. It's a bit of a cheap shot," she told BBC Breakfast on Tuesday.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2025

Indeed, one might ask whether everyone who is presuming that Smith did not follow department procedure is taking their own cheap shot.

From Slate • Oct. 7, 2024

So here’s the question: Is it fair criticism, or a cheap shot?

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2024

“I took a cheap shot at the beginning of the Notre Dame game,” Henderson said.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 28, 2023

“Natalie doesn’t like it either. She doesn’t like it one bit,” I say, although I know this is a cheap shot.

From "Al Capone Does My Shirts" by Gennifer Choldenko