When someone says, "that's a lot coming from you" after receiving a compliment, it can be interpreted in different ways depending on the context and the tone of the conversation. Here are a few possible interpretations:
Self-Deprecating Humor: The person might be using self-deprecating humor, suggesting that they don't often receive compliments or don't consider themselves worthy of such praise. It doesn't necessarily mean you are mean; they might just be surprised or flattered by the compliment.
Surprising Source: The person might mean that they didn't expect a compliment from you because they perceive you as someone who doesn't usually give compliments. It doesn't necessarily mean you are mean; it could be that you rarely express praise or positive remarks.
Past Interactions: If you've had some negative or critical interactions in the past, they might be implying that it's unexpected for you to say something nice. This doesn't necessarily mean you are always mean, but it could imply a history of not being overly positive.
It's essential to consider the person's tone and body language to better understand the intent behind their response. If you are unsure, you can always ask them directly about their comment to clarify their meaning. Communication is key to avoiding misunderstandings and improving relationships.