The meaning of BACKHANDED is indirect, devious; especially : sarcastic. How to use backhanded in a sentence.

backhanded compliment He gave me what sounded like a backhanded compliment. Backhanded shots are not used in field hockey. The third baseman made a tough backhanded stop. Her …

Apr 6, 2024 · Backhanded compliments are insults disguised as compliments. Some are obvious, others are more thinly veiled. I’ve searched the internet for the best examples of backhanded compliments. “Gosh, I wish I could be so relaxed about housework.” “You know a lot for someone who doesn’t read.” “What’s a girl like you doing in a nice place like this?”

Jul 21, 2023 · “A backhanded compliment, also known as a left-handed compliment or a double-edged compliment, is a statement that appears to have positive connotations on the surface but also contains a subtle insult or criticism.

If you say that someone is doing something in a backhanded way, they are doing it indirectly. [ disapproval ] In a backhanded way, I think a lot of my energy and strength comes from my campaigning.

Dec 4, 2020 · Merriam-Webster defines a backhanded compliment as “a compliment that implies it is not really a compliment at all.” The Urban Dictionary does a better job: “An insult disguised as a compliment.”...

To insult or negatively criticize one in a manner that is disguised as or seems like a compliment or bit of praise. A: "Those pants really suit you—your legs don't look nearly as fat in them!" B: "Wow, talk about paying someone a backhanded compliment!"

1. a stroke, slap, etc., made with the back of the hand turned forward. 2. (in tennis, squash, etc.) a stroke made with the back of the hand facing the direction of movement. 3. handwriting that slopes toward the left. 4. backhanded.

To insult or negatively criticize one in a manner that is disguised as or seems like a compliment or bit of praise. A: "Those pants really suit you—your legs don't look nearly as fat in them!" B: "Wow, talk about paying someone a backhanded compliment!"

Aug 26, 2022 · Dealing with backhanded compliments can be tricky. Here’s how to respond when someone offers praise interwoven with critique.

BACKHANDED definition: 1. A backhanded remark seems pleasant but may really be a criticism or mean something unkind: 2…. Learn more.

(of racket strokes) made across the body with back of hand facing direction of stroke

Designating an insincere or ambiguous compliment, esp. one that is indirectly unflattering or derogatory. A backhanded compliment. Performed by backhanding the ball. A backhanded …

Nov 11, 2024 · If someone often gives you backhanded compliments, it's important to address it calmly to avoid conflict. Open communication can prevent misunderstandings and protect your self-esteem. Ask for clarification.

If you say that someone is doing something in a backhanded way, they are doing it indirectly.

Oct 28, 2022 · What is a backhanded compliment? According to Merriam-Webster, a backhanded compliment is a compliment that is, well... not a compliment at all. The Cambridge Dictionary describes a backhanded...

A backhand is when you hit a ball with a racket or paddle with your arm across your body and the back of your hand facing the ball. Some tennis players find it challenging to hit a backhand. You can use the word backhand as a noun or an adjective, to describe a stroke in tennis, squash, or any other sport that involves a racket.

Dec 16, 2024 · What Is a Backhanded Compliment? A backhanded compliment is an insult poorly disguised as a compliment. It’s important to note that not all backhanded compliments are mean-spirited; sometimes, people say things out of ignorance. You can typically tell you’ve received a backhanded compliment if you suddenly feel bad or doubt your abilities.

If someone's compliment makes you feel kind of weird, it probably was a backhanded compliment. We'll help you recognise and respond to them, and understand why people give them at all.

If you say that someone is doing something in a backhanded way, they are doing it indirectly.