give the devil his due
📖 generalMeaning
To acknowledge the good qualities or achievements of even a bad or disliked person; to be fair and admit someone's positive attributes, despite their negative ones or your personal feelings.
Literal Meaning
To provide the devil with what he is owed or deserves.
Example
“I don't like my competitor, but I have to give the devil his due; his new product is remarkably innovative.”