underhanded

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Becket’s childhood friend Julia, played as an adult by a suitably underhanded Margaret Qualley, marries another man but keeps popping into Becket’s life with femme-fatale vibes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026

He’s dealing with the laws of the state, and by employing the kind of underhanded tactics that might have worked in a familial context, he has opened himself to legal consequences.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 11, 2025

Local 99 of Services Employees International Union says the district has been underhanded by keeping many employees working fewer than four hours per day.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 23, 2025

Shaquille O'Neal, when advised by Barry to "granny throw" in response to his poor 52% record, summed up the problem: "I'd shoot 0% before I'd shoot underhanded."

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2025

“I admit the way I got you here was a bit underhanded, but I didn’t want to risk you refusing. You’re important, Coal. This is important. You have to see that.”

From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste