hit someone when they are down: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘hit someone when they are down’ mean?
The idiom "hit someone when they are down" means to take advantage of or attack someone when they are already in a vulnerable or weakened state.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "strike someone when they are down" means to take advantage of someone's vulnerability or weakness to further harm them or make their situation worse.
The idiom "kick someone when they are down" means to take advantage of someone's vulnerable state or exploit their weakness for personal gain or to further harm them.
The idiom "hurt someone's feelings" means to cause emotional pain or upset to someone by saying or doing something that offends or upsets them.
The idiom "hit someone for six" means to completely shock or overwhelm someone, as if they were struck with great force and knocked down. It is often used to describe a situation or news that leaves someone stunned or emotionally affected.
The idiom "hit it up" means to begin or start something, often with enthusiasm or energy.
The idiom "hit below one's weight" means to perform at a level that is lower than expected or below one's usual standards. It is often used to describe someone who is not meeting their full potential or underperforming in a particular situation.
The idiom "face down" means to confront or deal with a difficult situation or challenge directly and without hesitation.
The idiom "duck down" means to quickly lower one's head or body to avoid being seen, hit, or caught. It is often used in situations where one needs to hide or protect themselves from something or someone.
Knocking the Vulnerable
The idiom "hit someone when they are down" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. This idiom is figurative in nature and does not involve actual physical violence. It is often used to describe a situation where someone takes advantage of another person's vulnerability or misfortune to inflict further harm or criticism.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the literal act of physically hitting someone who is already on the ground or in a weakened state. The metaphorical meaning of the idiom suggests a similar notion – that is, attacking or criticizing someone when they are already facing difficulties or setbacks.
In terms of usage, this idiom is commonly employed in both casual and formal contexts. It can be seen in everyday conversations, as well as in various forms of written communication. The idiom may be used to describe situations in various domains, including personal relationships, professional settings, and even in the realm of politics.
The idiom "strike someone when they are down" is closely related to the idiom "hit someone when they are down." Both idioms convey the idea of taking advantage of someone's vulnerability. However, "strike someone when they are down" implies a more deliberate and forceful action, emphasizing the act of attacking someone who is already in a disadvantaged position. This idiom can be used in similar contexts as "hit someone when they are down," adding intensity to the situation.
Similarly, the idiom "kick someone when they are down" shares a similar meaning as "hit someone when they are down." It suggests an act of further harm or mistreatment towards someone who is already at a disadvantage. The use of the word "kick" in the idiom adds an element of force and aggression, emphasizing the ruthlessness of the action. This idiom can be used to describe situations where someone not only takes advantage of another person's vulnerability but also inflicts additional pain or suffering.
The idiom "hit someone for six" is also related to the concept of taking advantage of someone's vulnerability. However, this idiom is more specific in its meaning. In cricket, hitting the ball for six runs is a powerful and impactful action. Therefore, "hit someone for six" metaphorically refers to dealing a heavy blow or causing a significant setback to someone. This idiom can be used to describe situations where someone experiences a major setback or defeat, adding insult to injury.
The idiom "down and out" is another related phrase that captures the essence of vulnerability and hardship. It is often used to describe someone who is in a state of extreme disadvantage or despair. This idiom can be used in the context of "hit someone when they are down" to emphasize the already weakened state of the person being targeted. The combination of both idioms underscores the severity of the situation and the lack of empathy or compassion shown towards the individual.
When examining the deeper meaning of this idiom, it becomes clear that it embodies a sense of cruelty or unfairness. By hitting someone when they are down, it implies a lack of empathy or compassion towards an individual who is already facing challenges or hardships. This idiom highlights the negative aspects of human behavior, specifically the tendency to exploit vulnerabilities in others.
Furthermore, the idiom can also suggest a power dynamic, wherein the person who is already down is seen as weak or inferior, while the person doing the hitting is in a position of advantage or strength. It reflects a sense of dominance and a desire to exert control over others, even in their weakest moments.
There are many examples in literature, media, and real-life situations where this idiom can be observed. It is often used to critique individuals or organizations that resort to unfair tactics or take advantage of someone's misfortune for personal gain.
The idiom "hit someone when they are down" serves as a powerful metaphor for the darker sides of human nature. It captures the essence of cruelty and unfairness, highlighting how some individuals can prey on the vulnerabilities of others. Although this idiom has its roots in physical violence, its figurative usage reflects a universal truth about the complexities of human behavior. It reminds us to reflect on our actions and consider the repercussions of exploiting the weaknesses or misfortunes of others.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "hit someone when they are down" can be used in a sentence:
- After losing his job, his so-called friends started to spread rumors about him, hitting him when he was down.
- The team's star player suffered a career-ending injury, and the opposing team took advantage of their weakened state, hitting them when they were down.
- She was going through a difficult breakup, and her ex-partner chose that exact moment to ask for their shared belongings, hitting her when she was already down.
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