He damned the project with faint praise by calling it interesting.
damn with faint praise
idiomTo provide praise that is minimal or inconsequential, implying that such praise is the best that could be said.
Origin
disputed originFrom a poem by Alexander Pope.
The critic damned the new film with faint praise, noting only that the costumes were colorful.
By describing the candidate's speech as merely adequate, the senator effectively damned him with faint praise in front of the entire assembly.
- 01
damn right
Expresses enthusiastic support or opposition, agreement or disagreement, certainty or emphasis.
- 02
damn straight
Without doubt, certainly, for sure.
- 03
damn the torpedoes
Used to dismiss the risks of a dangerous action.
- 04
give a damn
To be concerned about, have an interest in, to care (about something).
- 05
praise to the skies
To praise or laud (someone or something) excessively.
- 06
praise with faint damns
To provide minimal critique, implying that the criticism is the worst that could be said of someone or something.