low blow

USAGE SUMMARY

"low blow" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is an informal phrase typically used to describe a comment or action that is considered unfair, insensitive, or harsh. For example, "Calling her mother a liar was a low blow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's really a low blow".

The New York Times

"It was a low blow".

The New York Times

That's a low blow".

The New York Times - Sports

"This is a low blow".

The New York Times - Sports

I thought it was a low blow.

The New Yorker

"Alexandra's was sort of a low blow," he said.

The New York Times - Magazine

Turnbull thinks lawyer – while true – is a very low blow.

The Guardian

That's a low blow, as far as I'm concerned".

The New York Times - Sports

He threw one low blow, which appeared to be accidental.

The New York Times - Sports

"That really is kind of a low blow," he said.

The New York Times

It was a low blow, and he knew it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "low blow" to describe actions or statements that are deliberately unfair or hurtful. It's most effective when the action violates an implicit or explicit agreement of fair play.

Common error

Avoid using "low blow" to describe situations that are simply unfortunate or unintentional. The phrase implies a degree of malice or deliberate intent to harm, so applying it too broadly dilutes its impact and can misrepresent the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "low blow" functions as a noun, typically used to describe an action or statement considered unfair or underhanded. As Ludwig AI confirms, it often implies a deliberate attempt to hurt or disadvantage someone. Ludwig examples show it used across different contexts, both literally and figuratively.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

19%

Sport

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "low blow" is a common and informal expression used to describe an action or statement considered unfair, hurtful, or unethical. As Ludwig AI states, it's grammatically correct and widely used, typically implying a deliberate intent to harm. The phrase sees frequent use in News & Media, sports, and Wiki sources. While it's easily understood in most contexts, it's generally best to avoid using "low blow" in formal writing where a more neutral or precise term might be better. Related phrases include "unfair tactic" and "cheap shot".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

below-the-belt hit

Maintains the metaphor of physical aggression but emphasizes the violation of unspoken rules.

cheap shot

Focuses on the ease and lack of skill required for the action, implying cowardice.

unfair tactic

Emphasizes the lack of fairness in the action, moving away from the physical connotation.

dirty trick

Highlights the deceitful and underhanded nature of the act.

unsportsmanlike behavior

Specifically refers to violations of fairness in a competitive setting.

foul play

Suggests a violation of rules or ethical principles.

unethical move

Highlights the morally questionable nature of the action.

ungentlemanly conduct

Highlights a breach of social etiquette and decorum.

mean-spirited remark

Shifts the focus to verbal attacks and the intention behind them.

cruel act

Focuses on the harmful and insensitive impact of the action.

FAQs

How can I use "low blow" in a sentence?

You can use "low blow" to describe an unfair or hurtful action or comment. For example: "Accusing him of lying was a "low blow", especially since he was being honest."

What's an alternative to saying "low blow"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "unfair tactic", "cheap shot", or "foul play".

What does "low blow" mean in a figurative sense?

Figuratively, "low blow" refers to a remark or action that is unfair, unkind, or unexpected, especially when it exploits someone's vulnerabilities. It's like a physical attack to a sensitive area, but in a verbal or emotional context.

Is "low blow" appropriate in formal writing?

While "low blow" is widely understood, it's considered informal. In formal writing, it's often better to use more neutral and precise language, such as "unfair tactic" or "unethical move".