Hit somebody when they’re down

usgb
phrase

To harm, criticize, or take advantage of someone when they are already suffering or experiencing difficulties.

It's not fair to hit somebody when they're down. We should be supportive instead.
Visual representation of "hit somebody when they’re down" - To harm, criticize, or take advantage of someone when they are already suffering or experiencing difficulties.

Often appears as...

  • break someone when they're down
  • attack someone when they're down

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "hit somebody when they’re down"
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Figurative Meaning

The phrase is often used metaphorically, not describing physical action but rather mean behavior.

Illustration for Figurative Meaning
The media tends to hit celebrities when they're down by spreading negative stories.
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Negative Connotation

Using this phrase almost always implies a negative judgment of the person acting.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
That politician was really hitting his opponent when he pointed out his recent divorce.
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Emotional Weight

The phrase can evoke sympathy for the person being hit and disapproval towards the aggressor.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
Everyone felt sorry for Jake; the team hit him when he was down about losing the game.
Visual representation of the word "Hit somebody when they’re down"

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