cold comfort
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/kˈoʊld kˈʌmfɚt/
British pronunciation
/kˈəʊld kˈʌmfət/

Definition & Meaning of "cold comfort"

Cold comfort
01

sympathy, help, or encouragement that is barely enough to improve a person's situation or make them feel any better

cold comfort definition and meaning
IdiomIdiom

What is the origin of the idiom "cold comfort" and when to use it?

The idiom "cold comfort" refers to a situation where something may provide a small amount of relief or consolation but ultimately fails to offer true comfort or solace. It describes a situation where the consolation or reassurance provided is insufficient to alleviate the distress or disappointment being experienced. It describes a situation where the consolation or reassurance provided is insufficient to alleviate the distress or disappointment being experienced.

example
Example
click on words
After failing the exam, the teacher's reassurance that " at least you tried your best " felt like cold comfort to the disappointed student.
The apology from the airline for the flight delay was cold comfort to the weary passengers who had missed their connections.
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