Flattering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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flattering
[ˈflætərɪŋ ]
Definitions
complimenting appearance
Flattering means showing someone in a way that makes them look attractive or appealing. It is often used to describe clothes, hairstyles, or makeup that enhance a person's appearance.
Synonyms
appealing, complimentary, enhancing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flattering |
Used when describing something that makes someone look good or better than usual. Often related to appearance, physical attributes, or presentations.
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| complimentary |
Used when speaking about something given for free or when providing praise. It has a positive and courteous connotation.
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| appealing |
Used to describe something attractive or interesting to people. It can refer to appearance, ideas, food, products, etc.
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| enhancing |
Used when something improves or strengthens another quality, feature, or ability. It is often used with technology, skills, and attributes.
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Examples of usage
- The flattering dress accentuated her curves.
- He received many compliments on his flattering haircut.
- She wore makeup that was very flattering to her features.
praising someone to gain favor
Flattering can also mean excessively praising someone, often with insincerity, in order to gain favor or approval. It is a form of manipulation or flattery.
Synonyms
ingratiating, obsequious, sycophantic.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flattering |
Used when giving compliments or praise that make someone feel good about themselves. It can be genuine or insincere but is generally perceived as positive.
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| ingratiating |
Used when someone is trying to deliberately make themselves liked by others, often through deliberate charm or flattery. It can feel manipulative.
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| sycophantic |
Used to describe someone who flatters people of higher status in an overly eager way to gain advantage. It is strongly negative.
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| obsequious |
Used to describe someone who is overly eager to please or obey, often in a way that is seen as excessive or servile. It carries a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She received a lot of flattering comments from her colleagues, but she knew they were insincere.
- He was skilled at using flattering words to get what he wanted.
- Don't believe everything he says; he has a habit of flattering people to get his way.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Flattering can trigger the brain's reward system, releasing feel-good chemicals like dopamine.
- Research shows that people often respond positively to compliments, enhancing social bonds and boosting self-esteem.
- However, excessive or insincere flattery can lead to distrust, as people may perceive it as manipulation.
Pop Culture
- Flattery is a common theme in romantic comedies, where characters often use sweet words to win affection.
- Many artists and musicians have used flattery in their lyrics to express love and admiration.
- The show 'The Office' frequently features characters using flattery for personal gain, highlighting its comedic and strategic elements.
Literature
- Flattery is a popular motif in classical literature, often used by characters to persuade or manipulate others.
- In Shakespeare's plays, flattery is depicted both as a tool for ambition and a source of folly.
- Novelists often explore the complex intentions behind flattery, revealing deeper themes of truth and deception.
Cultural Perspectives
- In some cultures, giving compliments is crucial for maintaining social harmony and relationships.
- Conversely, in many Asian cultures, excessive flattery can be viewed as insincere or boastful, emphasizing humility instead.
- The way flattery is expressed can vary greatly across cultures, impacting how it's received and perceived.
Origin of 'flattering'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'flater,' which means to stroke or caress, originally related to giving compliments.
- It entered the English language in the late 15th century, illustrating how kindness in language evolves over time.
- The core meaning reflects the act of charming or pleasing someone through praise.
The word 'flattering' originated from the verb 'flatter', which came from Old French 'flater' meaning 'to caress, smooth, flatter'. The concept of flattery has been present in human interactions for centuries, with various cultures having different views on its use and implications. Flattering can be seen as a form of social lubrication or manipulation, depending on the context.
See also: flatterer.