never have a good word to say for (someone of something)

never have a good word to say for (someone of something)

To always say negative, hurtful, or critical things about someone or something; to never or rarely say something positive or encouraging about someone or something. No wonder the kid's self esteem is so low—his parents never have a good word to say for him. I don't understand why she stays in the same job if she never has a good word to say for it.See also: good, have, never, of, say, word