Southerners use the term: “Bless his heart” to virtually negate the statement before it.
“He tries so hard to look nice. Bless his heart.” Meaning: “The guy is a slob.”
“He always tries to sound sensible. Bless his heart.” Meaning: “The guy is dumb as a post.” s
@LuckyGuy There is a subtle variation: “well, bless your heart” in the context of sympathy is usually sincere. “What happened? you poor thing, bless your heart” <—sincere
“Wow, just look at you, you look a mess, bless your heart” <—what were you thinking you freaking idiot.
Then there is “Oh Nancy, bless her little heart” followed with a sigh and and possible shoulder shrug <—- F that bitch.
@ARE_you_kidding_me Subtle difference, indeed. In my case they are talking about the other person. In your cases they are talking to the person. Interesting. Thanks for pointing that out.
I think rascal or scalawag are too mild when it comes to the issue of severity. Imagine rascal as an appropriate tag for say a child molester or wife beater.