What does “Back-handed compliment” mean?
"A back-handed compliment" means a compliment that also includes an insult or criticism.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He gave me a back-handed compliment by saying I looked good for my age.
Example
She said my presentation was impressive, but it was just a back-handed compliment because she thought I was too young to be successful.
Example
His back-handed compliment about my cooking skills made me question my abilities in the kitchen
Is “Back-handed compliment” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Back-handed compliment” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Back-handed compliment” effectively in context?
You can use "Back-handed Compliment" to describe a compliment that also includes an insult or criticism. It implies that the compliment is insincere or has a hidden agenda. For example, if someone says, 'You look good for your age,' they are indirectly implying that you look old. It's important to recognize when someone is giving you a back-handed compliment so that you can respond appropriately.
- 1Appearance
He gave me a back-handed compliment by saying I looked good for my age.
- 2Achievement
She said my presentation was impressive, but it was just a back-handed compliment because she thought I was too young to be successful.
- 3Skills
His back-handed compliment about my cooking skills made me question my abilities in the kitchen.
Similar phrases to “Back-handed compliment”:
Left-handed compliment
A compliment that is also an insult or criticism
Example
Her comment about my outfit was a left-handed compliment.
Double-edged compliment
A compliment that has both positive and negative aspects
Example
His praise for my work had a double-edged compliment, as he also pointed out some flaws.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Back-handed compliment” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Back-handed Compliment" is unknown.
Is “Back-handed compliment” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Back-handed Compliment" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often encounter situations where they receive compliments that are not entirely genuine or have a hidden meaning. It's important to be aware of this type of compliment and understand its true intention.
What tone does “Back-handed compliment” have?
"Back-handed Compliment" conveys a tone of sarcasm or insincerity. It implies that the person giving the compliment is being passive-aggressive or subtly insulting. It's often used to describe situations where someone is trying to undermine or belittle another person while appearing polite.
Can “Back-handed compliment” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Back-handed Compliment" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a specific type of compliment. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He gave me a back-handed compliment by saying I looked good for my age.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That was a back-handed compliment!' to express that someone received a disguised insult.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- insincere compliment
- two-faced compliment
- underhanded compliment
- sly compliment
- disguised insult
Antonyms
- genuine compliment
- sincere praise
- honest admiration
- straightforward compliment
