Her complimentable artwork received praise from everyone at the gallery opening.

The sample was enclosed with compliments, so you don't need to pay for or return it.

His praise was nothing more than a Chinese compliment meant to flatter the boss while hiding his true aims.

Calling her presentation 'better than I expected' was a backhanded compliment that annoyed her.

He defused the awkward silence with a string of backwards compliments, praising their quirks by framing them as surprising strengths.

I learned to smile politely whenever I received backhanded compliments at the reunion.

He deflected praise with backward compliments that left everyone unsure whether to smile or frown.

She received many Chinese compliments after her performance.

Calling her 'surprisingly articulate' felt like a backward compliment that made the whole room awkward.

He tried to soften the criticism with a backwards compliment, but it only made her more suspicious.