damn with faint praise
Say it: dam with faynt PRAYZ /ˌdæm wɪð ˌfeɪnt ˈpreɪz/ · idiom
What “damn with faint praise” means
Suggest criticism by giving only weak praise.
More precisely: To criticise someone indirectly by praising them only weakly.
When to use it
When a lukewarm compliment hints at criticism. A more literary phrase, useful when discussing reviews or someone's careful wording.
Similar words
back-handed compliment, grudging praise
Where it comes from
From Alexander Pope's poem 'Epistle to Dr Arbuthnot' (1735).
Quick check
Asked about a brilliant meal, a guest says only, 'Well, the plates were clean.' Which phrase describes that response?
sing someone's praises or damn with faint praise?
Show the answer
damn with faint praise
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