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whataboutism

A term used to dismiss valid criticism of the user's own hypocrisy.

Not to be confused with saying literally "what about-", which is a similar act of comparing someone's behavior with their own past actions.
"You're a terrible parent because you won't let your kids watch tv!"
"Didn't one of your kids die because of neglect?"
"That's whataboutism!"
by ColonelCluster February 14, 2024
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whataboutism

Attempt to deflect from valid criticism by claiming that your critic are themselves deflecting from criticism.
US Liberal: Conservatives want children to die because they won't ban all guns!
US Conservative: The vast majority of guns are never used to kill children, and are routinely used for self-defense to actually save lives, including those of children. Besides, you're pro-abortion, which literally murders millions of children every year.
US Liberal: Shutup! That's whataboutism!
by The Bugle Abridged June 27, 2022
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