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To Fish for a Compliment 

When you are mentioning something you did, something you are wearing, etc. to make someone else give you a compliment for it.
The following are examples of "To Fish for a Compliment":

Her: Oh, I'm so tired of baking. These cinnamon rolls took me all day to make.
Him: And they sure do taste wonderful!
Her: I guess I fished for that compliment.

One girl to her friend: I was so lucky to get this sweater on sale last Thursday.
The friend: It looks great on you!

Husband: Man, I'm tired of changing tires on all our cars.
Wife: Thank you so much for doing it. I really appreciate it.

Compliment fishing 

When someone essentially insults themself in order to get sympathy from other people. A flirting tactic used by many girls.
Guy: Hi, what's wrong?
Girl: *sigh* I look awful today!
Guy: No you don't! You look absolutely wonderful!
Girl: No, I don't. Stop being nice.
Guy: I'm serious, you do! You're the most beautiful girl in the world, you couldn't look better!
Girl: I guess... but I'm stupid.
Guy: No you're not! You're 50 million times smarter than me!

... and this compliment fishing goes on. Don't fall for it, guys. It usually leads you to a girl who will dump you unless you compliment their every move and become their slave.
Compliment fishing by MrCuddles September 22, 2006

Compliment fishing 

Putting oneself down to others to evoke sympathy from others especially regarding ones appearance. Typically happens after a break-up.
Fisher: "Oh my gosh, I feel so awful now..."
Sucker: "What do you mean?"
Fisher: "I mean...I just *sigh*...I don't know."
Sucker: "Seriously, what is it?"
Fisher: "I just wish I could still wear my size 0 pants."
Sucker: "No! You look so amazing right now! You're perfect and don't let anyone tell you otherwise!"
Fisher: "I guess *sigh* Thanks."

That my friends, was a prime example of compliment fishing. Don't be suckered.

Compliment Fishing 

Complimenting another person, just in anticipation that they will, in turn, compliment you.
Compliment Fishing:

Aww, you're so pretty!

Thanks! So are you!

*Yes!*
Compliment Fishing by mmoniot January 13, 2011

Fishing for Compliments 

The act of criticizing yourself so that others will praise you.
Mackenzie is always complaining about her singing. She's not a bad singer, I don't know why she's fishing for compliments.

fishing for compliments 

Making statements that encourage others to give you compliments.

see also: emotional masturbation
Jane: Notice anything different?
Billy: oh, um, love the new haircut sweety.