" 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. "

― Susan C. Young , The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact (The Art of First Impressions for Positive Impact, #4)