fish for compliments
Meaning
To try to get people to praise you by hinting or acting modest, often in an obvious or insincere way.
Origin
From the verb “fish for,” meaning to try to obtain something indirectly (as if angling with a hook). “Compliments” are the desired catch—praise drawn out by hints.
Notes
Often mildly critical or sarcastic, implying the praise-seeking is obvious or insincere. Common in casual speech; saying it to someone’s face can sound accusing.
Examples
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She kept asking if her haircut looked weird, clearly fishing for compliments.
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When I mentioned my promotion, I wasn’t fishing for compliments—I was just sharing the news.
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I know you want reassurance, but stop fishing for compliments so openly.
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After the speech, he lingered near the front row, fishing for compliments from anyone who passed by.
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Every time she posts a photo, she captions it with “I look terrible,” just to fish for compliments.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually “fish for compliments” or “fish for a compliment.” Verb inflects (fishes/fished/fishing). Object can vary (fish for praise/approval). Common pattern: be + fishing for….
Synonyms
- seek compliments
- angle for compliments
- beg for praise
- seek praise
- fish for praise
Antonyms
- accept praise gracefully
- be modest
- downplay attention