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Ummm … thanks? I’m overjoyed that you find my ability to form complete sentences so impressive. Just wait until I actually start discussing my views on Donald Trump. You’re going to think I’m a genius!

This is a tough one because you might be saying this with sincerity; however, it's essential that you ask yourself why you're making this comment. Are you truly moved by the way she speaks or are you really impressed because you believe other people that look like her usually aren't eloquent and are uneducated? Unless she just finished summarizing her doctoral thesis for you, you may come off as condescending. The connotation behind this compliment is that you are surprised that she is well-spoken and well-informed because she is a woman of color.

There is a misguided perception in America that most Blacks speak slang and are “ghetto.” Whether or not you agree with this perception, it's one that exists. Don’t sound so surprised when she speaks sensibly and just enjoy the conversation.

backhanded compliments

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