FAINT PRAISE Meaning and
Definition
-
Faint praise refers to a form of compliment or approval that is expressed in a lukewarm or understated manner, often implying a lack of genuine enthusiasm or wholehearted endorsement. It is a phrase typically used to describe praise that is relatively mild, muted, or unenthusiastic despite the overwhelmingly positive expectations or potential for more effusive accolades.
In instances of faint praise, the words used may convey a somewhat positive sentiment, but the overall tone, lack of enthusiasm, or reservation in the speaker's delivery can undermine the sincerity or impact of the praise. This form of praise often carries a subtle implication that the praised entity falls short of the highest expectations, standards, or performance levels.
Faint praise can be employed for various reasons, ranging from diplomatic courtesy to veiled criticism. It may be used tactfully to avoid offending or hurting someone's feelings when delivering a less favorable judgment or assessment. In some cases, it can be used as a deliberately subtle way to undermine or cast doubt on someone's accomplishments or worth.
Overall, faint praise is characterized by a moderate or restrained expression of approval that falls short of the level of adulation or wholehearted recognition typically expected or deserved. The term often suggests a lack of genuine admiration, enthusiasm, or conviction behind the praise, leaving space for interpretation or doubt regarding the true sentiment behind the words.
Common Misspellings for FAINT PRAISE
- daint praise
- caint praise
- vaint praise
- gaint praise
- taint praise
- raint praise
- fzint praise
- fsint praise
- fwint praise
- fqint praise
- faunt praise
- fajnt praise
- faknt praise
- faont praise
- fa9nt praise
- fa8nt praise
- faibt praise
- faimt praise
- faijt praise
- faiht praise
Etymology of FAINT PRAISE
The word "faint praise" is a phrase formed by combining the adjective "faint" and the noun "praise".
The term "faint" traces its roots back to the Old French word "faint" meaning "weak" or "feeble". It entered the English language in the 14th century and has retained a similar meaning throughout its history.
On the other hand, the word "praise" originates from the Latin word "pretium" meaning "price" or "value". It evolved into the Latin word "pretiare" meaning "to appraise" or "to prize". This eventually influenced the Old French word "preisier" which meant "to esteem" or "to praise" and later entered English as "praise" during the 14th century.
Idioms with the word FAINT PRAISE
-
damn with faint praise
To damn with faint praise means to criticize someone or something by offering only faint or insincere praise, which ultimately serves to belittle or condemn them.
-
damn (someone or something) with faint praise
To damn someone or something with faint praise means to criticize or show disapproval of them by giving only minimal or insincere compliments.
-
damn somebody/something with faint praise
To damn somebody/something with faint praise means to criticize or belittle in a way that seems neutral or even complimentary on the surface, but actually implies disapproval or disappointment. It is a subtle form of insult or criticism disguised as a compliment.
-
damn (sb/sth) with faint praise
To damn someone or something with faint praise means to criticize or belittle them in a subtle or understated way, often by giving a compliment that is unenthusiastic or backhanded.
-
damn someone/something with faint praise
To damn someone or something with faint praise means to criticize or belittle them/it by only giving a small amount of praise or compliments that are not sincere or genuine. This can imply a lack of enthusiasm or sincerity in the praise given.
-
damn sb with faint praise
To damn someone with faint praise means to offer a minimal or insincere compliment that actually serves to criticize or disparage them indirectly. It is a form of criticism disguised as praise.
-
damn sm or sth with faint praise
To damn someone or something with faint praise means to criticize or belittle them in such a subtle or indirect way that it may seem like praise, but is actually a form of condemnation.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
