The expression “cheap shot” is an idiom used to describe a criticism, insult, or attack that is unfair, hurtful, or made without just cause, often because it exploits a vulnerable situation. This phrase can apply in both literal and figurative contexts, from physical altercations to verbal or emotional jabs.
Origin and Literal Meaning
Originally, “cheap shot” came from the world of sports, especially contact sports like boxing, football, or hockey. In that context, a cheap shot refers to a blow delivered outside the rules of fair play—for example, hitting an opponent after the whistle has blown or striking them in an illegal area, like the back or below the belt.
Example (literal):
- In a football match, a player tackles his opponent after the play is over. Since the game was paused, this is considered a cheap shot—a foul committed with no competitive justification, and usually with malicious intent.
Figurative Meaning
Over time, the term evolved into broader use, now often applied in social, political, or emotional situations. A cheap shot in conversation refers to an unkind or unnecessary remark, usually meant to belittle someone or make them feel bad, particularly when they can’t defend themselves effectively.
Key characteristics of a figurative cheap shot:
- It’s unfair or below-the-belt.
- It often targets a person’s insecurities, past mistakes, or personal issues.
- It’s used to gain an advantage, humiliate, or shut someone down.
- It lacks constructive value and is meant more to hurt than to help.
Examples in Everyday Situations
1. Workplace
Imagine a staff meeting where a team is brainstorming ideas. One team member suggests something, and another says:
- “Well, considering your track record, I’m not surprised that’s your idea.”
This is a cheap shot because it unfairly uses the person’s past mistakes to discredit a current idea, rather than evaluating it on its own merits.
2. Politics
During a debate, one candidate is discussing economic policy, and the other suddenly says:
- “You wouldn’t understand—your company went bankrupt.”
Instead of responding to the argument, the speaker delivers a cheap shot by bringing up the other person’s financial failure, possibly to embarrass them rather than engage with their ideas.
3. Relationships
In a heated argument between partners, one says:
- “Maybe if you weren’t so much like your mother, we wouldn’t have these problems.”
This statement is a cheap shot because it drags in a personal comparison and uses it to intensify the argument, rather than solve the problem.
Why People Use Cheap Shots
People often resort to cheap shots when:
- They feel defensive or threatened and want to regain control.
- They want to win an argument, even if it means being unfair.
- They are angry, frustrated, or hurt, and lash out emotionally.
- They don’t have strong arguments, so they attack the person instead of the point.
While it might feel like a quick way to gain the upper hand, a cheap shot usually backfires, leading to resentment, damaged relationships, or loss of credibility.
Cultural Usage and Media
In comedy and media, “cheap shots” are sometimes used intentionally for effect. Some comedians rely on making fun of celebrities, politicians, or sensitive topics. While some audiences find this funny, others criticize it as lazy or offensive humor.
Example:
- A comedian jokes, “He’s so old he probably knew Moses personally.” While funny to some, this could be viewed as a cheap shot at someone’s age.
In journalism or public commentary, ethical writers and speakers avoid cheap shots, as they erode meaningful discussion and focus on ad hominem attacks rather than facts.
Conclusion
In essence, a cheap shot is an unfair or underhanded criticism, whether physical or verbal. It is called “cheap” because it costs little effort or moral courage, but can cause disproportionate harm. Whether in sports, relationships, debates, or the workplace, cheap shots often reflect poorly on the person delivering them, revealing insecurity or a lack of respect. Avoiding cheap shots and focusing on fair, constructive communication leads to more respectful and productive interactions.
