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Fish for compliments meaning

What does the saying 'Fish for compliments' mean?

Idiom: Fish for compliments

Meaning:

Usually said of someone who puts themselves down (similar to false modesty) in the hope that others will contradict them, and in the process, compliment them.

Sam: I'm no good at drawing!
Judy: Nonsense! You're an excellent artist!
Bob: Aw, he was just fishing for compliments.

Country: International English | Subject Area: General | Usage Type: Both or All Words Used
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