Blandishing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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blandishing
[หblรฆndษชสษชล ]
Definition
flattering intent
Blandishing refers to the act of using flattery or coaxing to persuade someone to do something. It often implies a soft, insincere approach aimed at gaining favor.
Synonyms
cajoling, coaxing, flattering, wheeling.
Examples of usage
- She was blandishing her boss to get a promotion.
- The salesperson was blandishing the customers with sweet words.
- He tried blandishing his way into her good graces.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Blandishing techniques are often found in classic literature, where characters use flattery to achieve their goals.
- Shakespeare frequently employed blandishments in his plays, showcasing the art of persuasion through dialogue.
- In many fairy tales, characters use kind words to win favors from more powerful figures, illustrating moral lessons about manipulation.
Psychology
- Psychologically, flattery can create a bond between people, influencing decisions and behavior.
- Studies suggest that receiving compliments activates reward centers in the brain, making us more likely to comply with requests.
- People often respond positively to blandishments because they thrive on positive social interactions and validation.
Pop Culture
- Blandishing appears in many popular films where characters charm or sweet-talk others to get what they want.
- Reality shows often highlight blandishing as contestants try to win over judges or allies with sweet talk.
- Songs frequently feature themes of flattery, illustrating how love and romance can be fueled by compliments and kind words.
Origin of 'blandishing'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'blandiri', which means 'to flatter or soothe'.
- It was first used in English in the early 17th century, showing the long history of gentle persuasion.
- The word is connected to terms like 'bland', meaning smooth or soothing, which reflects its gentle approach.
The term 'blandishing' is derived from the Latin word 'blandiri', which means 'to flatter' or 'to soothe'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Initially, it was often used in relation to physical actions that were gentle or coaxing, but over time, it has come to specifically denote verbal flattery aimed at persuasion. The usage of the term reflects the cultural importance placed on manners and charm in social interactions, where the ability to persuade others with pleasant words can be a powerful tool. Throughout literature, blandishing has been depicted as both a persuasive technique and a manipulative tool, showcasing the dual nature of flattery in social contexts.