Underhand Meaning in English
word
Definition
Describes actions that are done secretly and dishonestly, often to deceive or cheat someone. It can also refer to a style of throwing or hitting where the hand is below shoulder level.
Usage & Nuances
Most commonly used as 'underhand tactics' to describe sneaky or unfair behavior. It is negative and formal or neutral, not slang. In sports, 'underhand throw' means a particular physical technique, unrelated to dishonesty. Do not confuse with 'underhanded', which is more common for the dishonest meaning in American English.
Example Sentences
He used an underhand method to win the game.
basic
That was a very underhand trick.
basic
He made an underhand throw during the match.
basic
I don’t trust him after those underhand tactics last year.
natural
Everyone saw that was a totally underhand move, but he denied it.
natural
He managed to get the promotion in a really underhand way.
natural