How to Pronounce "backhanded compliment"
expression
ˈbækˌhændɪd/ /ˈkɑmpɫəmɛnt
BAK-han-did KOM-pluh-ment
bˈækhændɪd/ /ˈkɒmplɪmənt
bak-HAN-did KOM-plih-ment
Definition
A remark that sounds like a compliment, but actually contains an insult or criticism.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈbækˌhændɪd/ /ˈkɑmpɫəmɛnt
British English
bˈækhændɪd/ /ˈkɒmplɪmənt
Simplified Pronunciation
US
BAK-han-did KOM-pluh-ment
UK
bak-HAN-did KOM-plih-ment
Listen in Context
She gave me a backhanded compliment about my new haircut.
A backhanded compliment can hurt more than an insult.
Why did you make that backhanded compliment at the party?
When she said, 'You look good for your age,' I knew it was a backhanded compliment.