Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
damn-with-faint-praise
idiom
/dæm wɪð feɪnt preɪz/
Definition
To criticize someone or something indirectly by giving it minimal praise that is actually meant to convey disapproval.
Examples
- Despite being recognized with an award, his accomplishments were mostly met with damn-with-faint-praise comments from his peers.
- The review was filled with damn-with-faint-praise remarks, such as ‘It’s not the worst film I’ve seen.’
Meaning
The phrase implies that while someone is technically praising another, the praise is so weak that it actually feels like an insult.
Synonyms
- insincere praise
- backhanded compliment
- half-hearted praise
