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3. hit (someone) when (he or she) is down

hit (someone) when (he or she) is down

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hit (someone) when (he or she) is down

To criticize, exploit, insult, or otherwise treat badly someone who has already suffered a setback or is in a vulnerable position. Can Jeff's employee review wait until next week? His girlfriend just left him, and I don't want to hit him while he's down. Bob: "I'm sorry you got fired, but you shouldn't have been so sloppy with your work." Dave: "Wow, Bob. Way to hit me when I'm down."

See also: down, hit