7+ Back-Handed “Compliments” That Are Actually Insults

The Midwest is the queen of nice, and passive aggression. And one thing Midwest women especially specialize in is back-handed compliments.

Back-handed compliments are when someone doesn’t like you. For me, that is my mother-in-law.

Here are some of what I have heard out of her mouth for 25 years:

1. This is a great photo of you!

Ummm….thanks? Do I normally look bad?

2. You’re not as dumb as you look.

Thanks, you aren’t either?

3. You’re on time, big surprise!

I tend to not be on time and everyone knows this. But I hate being called out for being late.

4. Your house feels so cozy and lived in.

This must be the supreme back-handed compliment.

5. You clean up nice.

So I normally look like crap?