"awkward compliment" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a compliment that is given in an unintentionally awkward or uncomfortable manner. Example: During the awards ceremony, the presenter's awkward compliment to the winner made everyone cringe.
And Patrick Stewart paid the cast the awkward compliment of leaving after the first act because he found it too close to home (he promises to return).
Sort of an awkward compliment, but nowhere near as awkward as Ellen forgetting the singer's brief marriage to Russell Brand.
She sold superfoods and as an awkward compliment, I said that her products were "definitely working for her".
Stop giving awkward compliments about moms' bodies.
Giving the person extra awkward compliments like, "I've noticed you've worn that pink sweater three times this month.
That's not very hard and awkward after the compliment is given.
If you are uncertain about your looks, it may feel awkward to get compliments and your anxious reaction might be to deflect or down-play the compliment.
He called the show an "awkward celebration" but complimented the overall production.
Or, perhaps, you feel a little bit awkward dishing out compliments (especially if it's to somebody you don't know very well)?
More from Health.com: 6 Habits All Healthy Women Share 10 Signs You Might Be a Narcissist Feel Confident at Any Age. 3 Reasons You Feel Awkward When Someone Compliments You originally appeared on Health.com.
The Convention managers came up with an elegant filmed solution to the Dubya embarrassment: make it a father-son story, with the two of them sitting side by side up in Kennebunkport, trading awkward, affectionate joshings and compliments.
