backhanded compliment
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.
In past seasons, that description might have landed as a backhanded compliment — a “nice try” in the wake of some form-breaking comedy’s ascension as a critical darling.
From Salon • Feb. 6, 2025
We all know what their backhanded compliment is coded to mean!
From Seattle Times • Aug. 9, 2023
When Karl balks, she delivers a wicked backhanded compliment, saying: “You’re a corporate legend. What you did in the ’90s, with cable?
From New York Times • Apr. 16, 2023
The Welsh singer added: "It's sort of a backhanded compliment: 'I've got to have you, but this is the song.'"
From BBC • Feb. 9, 2023
This is what one calls a backhanded compliment.
From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman
