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.
That No 10 feels the need to criticise the Greens is a backhanded compliment that shows they matter.
From BBC • Jan. 31, 2026
The high-stakes romantic comedy “Oh, Hi!” is a backhanded compliment to lotharios like Rudolph Valentino, James Bond and “The Wolf of Wall Street’s” Jordan Belfort.
From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 24, 2025
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
This is what one calls a backhanded compliment.
From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman
