Underhandedness: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from 'underhand', meaning done secretly or in a sneaky way, combined with the suffix 'ness', which denotes a quality or state.
• Historically, the term has been used since the 19th century to describe secretive or dishonest actions.

Psychology

• People show underhanded behaviors to manipulate outcomes in their favor, often when they feel threatened or insecure.
• Research suggests that individuals who engage in underhanded actions may struggle with guilt or anxiety about being discovered.

Literature

• In Shakespeare's plays, characters often use deceit and cunning, reflecting the theme of underhandedness in human relationships.
• Modern novels frequently explore the moral implications of deceit, with characters facing consequences for their underhanded actions.

Pop Culture

• Many movies and TV shows involve plots centered around betrayal and underhanded tactics, showcasing the drama it brings to a story.
• Reality TV often magnifies underhandedness as contestants engage in manipulation to win, leading to dramatic confrontations.

Politics

• Political scandals often arise from underhanded tactics, where officials engage in deception to gain power or cover wrongdoing.
• Historical events have shown that underhanded actions can lead to significant shifts in public trust and political landscapes.