belt

aim/hit below the belt

be below the belt - if something someone says is below the belt, it is cruel and unfair. In the run-up to the election, politicians won't hesitate to aim below the belt.

See also: below, hit

be below the belt

if something someone says is below the belt, it is cruel and unfair. It was below the belt to mention his brother's criminal record.

See also: below

the Bible Belt

the southern and central area of the United States, where many people have very strong traditional Christian beliefs. Country music is very popular in the Bible Belt.

See also: Bible

tighten your belt

to spend less than you did before because you have less money. I've had to tighten my belt since I stopped working full-time.

See also: tighten

under your belt

if you have an experience or a qualification under your belt, you have completed it successfully, and it may be useful to you in the future. She was a capable individual, with fourteen years as managing director under her belt. He has several major drama awards under his belt.

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below the belt

not fair. That new advertisement really hits below the belt.

Usage notes: often used with hit, as in the example

Etymology: based on the idea of hitting someone below the belt in boxing, which is against the rules

See also: below

belt out something

to sing loudly and with enthusiasm. After five decades, Brother Ray can still belt out a soulful song.

Usage notes: sometimes used to describe enthusiastic talk: Keyes has belted out speeches warning about the need to rebuild the nation's moral fiber.

tighten your belt

to spend less money. I've had to tighten my belt since I stopped working full time.

See also: tighten

under your belt

already achieved or experienced. She had fourteen years as a manager under her belt and knew the job as well as anyone. He has several literary awards under his belt.