"UN-Impressive 'Compliments' . . . When compliments are used as a passive-aggressive way to manipulate others for personal gain. Delivering a back-handed compliment which makes others feel bad. Dishonesty-you say it but really do not mean it. False bravado. Manufacturing the moment for your ulterior motives. Pandering to win affection, a vote, or approval. Exaggerating and being over-zealous. Being hypocritical. Expressing preferential treatment or making an unfair comparison. When it draws attention to a person's weakness, disabilities, or shortcomings. When it is inappropriate and off-color."