Damn with faint praise Meaning in English
expression
Definición
To criticize someone or something indirectly by giving only weak or insincere compliments that actually highlight faults.
Uso & Matices
This is a somewhat formal, literary, or rhetorical phrase. Often used in criticism, reviews, or analysis. Implies praise that is so weak it feels like an insult. Typical in phrases like "He damned the movie with faint praise." Don't use for straightforward compliments.
Oraciones de Ejemplo
The review damned with faint praise by calling the movie "interesting."
basic
She didn't want to insult him directly, so she damned with faint praise.
basic
To damn with faint praise is to hide criticism inside a weak compliment.
basic
He said my cooking was "not as bad as last time"—talk about damning with faint praise!
natural
You know you're being damned with faint praise when people say your idea is "unique."
natural
That performance was a perfect example of being damned with faint praise—everyone just called it "okay."
natural