A backhanded compliment
phrase
A compliment that isn't really nice or can be seen as an insult.
When she said I looked younger than ever, I took it as a backhanded compliment. I knew she meant I usually look older than I am.
Often appears as...
- give a backhanded compliment
- receive a backhanded compliment
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
A compliment that isn't really nice or can be seen as an insult.
When she said I looked younger than ever, I took it as a backhanded compliment. I knew she meant I usually look older than I am.
Often appears as...
- give a backhanded compliment
- receive a backhanded compliment
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Detecting Sarcasm
Listen for tone and watch for facial expressions to catch the sarcasm behind a backhanded compliment.
Her grin as she called his cluttered desk 'organized chaos' hinted at a backhanded compliment.
Pro Tip 2/3Hidden Insults
Understand that a backhanded compliment may hide an insult within what sounds like flattery.
Saying 'You're not as slow as I thought' is a backhanded compliment implying low expectations.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
Remember, different cultures may interpret backhanded compliments differently; be mindful of context.
In some cultures, 'You've lost weight!' could be a backhanded compliment offending the receiver.
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