backhanded

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.

“It may be a backhanded way of acknowledging that she’d be quite formidable if she decided to get in.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2026

The most backhanded of backhanded compliments is paid to reporter Seymour Hersh during the documentary “Cover-Up,” and by the unlikeliest of sources.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 24, 2025

Last Thanksgiving was full of backhanded compliments and pointed remarks.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 27, 2025

They may also chip away at your mood slowly, through backhanded compliments or pressuring you to be upbeat, where they don't allow you to express how you are really feeling.

From BBC • Sep. 28, 2025

“I’m sorry,” I say, “but was that some sort of backhanded way of saying that I’m captivating?”

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy