French translation of backhanded is 
détourné

Meaning of "backhanded" in English

"Backhanded" refers to a comment or gesture that appears to be flattering or kind, but actually contains an element of insult or criticism. It's often used to describe a remark that is double-edged in nature, conveying sarcasm or irony. This adjective can imply that the speaker is being insincere or that the compliment, while sounding polite on the surface, actually carries a negative or disparaging undertone. For example, saying "You're surprisingly good at this for once" can be seen as a backhanded compliment.

Meaning of "détourné" in French

In French, "détourné" can refer to something that has been diverted or deviated from its original course or purpose. It is often used in contexts where something is redirected, such as resources, attention, or funds being unlawfully rerouted. The word can also imply a figurative meaning, suggesting manipulation or an indirect approach. Within artistic or literary contexts, "détourné" can relate to altering something in a way that gives it new meaning, as seen in surrealist or avant-garde practices.

Pronunciation of "backhanded" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈbækˌhændɪd/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "backhanded" is generally consistent across different English-speaking regions. However, slight variations may occur in the intensity of stress on the syllables, often depending on regional accents or dialects.

Pronunciation of "détourné" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /detuʁne/

Pronunciation Variations: "Détourné" is pronounced with a French accent, emphasizing the nasal sounds typical in French phonetics. Regional variations in France may lead to differences in the elongation of vowels or slight shifts in intonation, but the overall pronunciation remains fairly standard.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. He gave me a backhanded compliment about my cooking. (Il m'a fait un compliment détourné sur ma cuisine.)

2. Her praise felt more like a backhanded insult. (Ses éloges ressemblaient plus à une insulte détournée.)

3. The remark was backhanded, leaving me unsure of his true intentions. (La remarque était détournée, me laissant incertain de ses véritables intentions.)

4. Accepting a backhanded apology can be challenging. (Accepter des excuses détournées peut être difficile.)

5. His backhanded humor often leaves people confused. (Son humour détourné laisse souvent les gens perplexes.)

6. She subtly delivered a backhanded compliment to him. (Elle lui a subtilement fait un compliment détourné.)

7. The backhanded comment did not escape her notice. (Le commentaire détourné n'est pas passé inaperçu à ses yeux.)

8. His backhanded expressions often mask his real feelings. (Ses expressions détournées masquent souvent ses vrais sentiments.)

9. A backhanded gesture can reveal hidden disdain. (Un geste détourné peut révéler un mépris caché.)

10. Her backhanded remark was intended to provoke. (Sa remarque détournée était destinée à provoquer.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "backhanded" in English

Synonyms: sarcastic, insincere, deceptive, two-faced, roundabout, indirect, subtle, veiled, ambiguous, equivocal.

Antonyms: straightforward, direct, sincere, honest, candid, explicit, plain, genuine, clear, open.

Similar Words: ironic, sly, cunning, tricky, roundabout, convoluted, double-edged, artful, cryptic, nuanced.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "détourné" in French

Synonyms: manipulé, dévié, transformé, modifié, infléchi, falsifié, altéré, redirigé, déconseillé, perverti.

Antonyms: direct, droit, franc, rectiligne, inaltéré, vraie, authentique, original, pur, simple.

Similar Words: biaisé, camouflé, indirect, insinuant, smart, habile, caché, obscur, transfiguré, recomposé.

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