Sweet-talk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sweet-talk

[ˈswiːtˌtɔːk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

flattering language

To persuade someone by using soft words and flattery, often in order to manipulate or deceive them.

Synonyms

coax, flatter, persuade.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sweet-talk	Typically used when trying to charm or influence someone with pleasing words and compliments, often with a hidden agenda. He tried to sweet-talk his way into getting a better deal. She sweet-talked her parents into letting her go to the party.
persuade	Used in general situations where one is trying to convince someone to do or believe something through reasoned argument or discussion. She persuaded him to reconsider his decision. They tried to persuade her that their plan was the best option.
flatter	Usually involves giving someone excessive or insincere praise to gain favor, often seen as manipulative or deceitful. He flattered his boss to get a promotion. She flattered him by saying he was the best chef she had ever known.
coax	Used when gently persuading someone to do something through patience and kindness. He had to coax the cat out from under the bed. She coaxed her friend into going on the trip.

Examples of usage

He sweet-talked his way into getting a discount on the car.
Don't let him sweet-talk you into doing something you don't want to do.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

flattering speech

Flattering or persuasive words used to manipulate or deceive someone.

Synonyms

flattery, manipulation, persuasion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sweet-talk	Used when trying to influence someone by using kind and charming words, often insincerely. She managed to sweet-talk her way out of a ticket He sweet-talked his boss into giving him a raise
flattery	Involves giving excessive, and often insincere, praise to someone, usually to gain some advantage. She used flattery to make him feel good about himself His constant flattery made her suspicious of his true intentions
persuasion	Indicates the act of convincing someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argument. His powers of persuasion were impressive After much persuasion, she agreed to help
manipulation	Refers to controlling or influencing someone, often in a deceptive or unfair manner. Negative connotation. He was accused of emotional manipulation She used manipulation to get her way

Examples of usage

She was won over by his sweet-talk and ended up agreeing to his proposal.
His sweet-talk couldn't fool her, she saw through his lies.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

In movies, characters often use sweet-talk to win over love interests, showcasing the technique's charm and appeal.
Several famous songs focus on the theme of sweet-talking to express romantic feelings or persuade someone.

Psychology

Research shows that people often use flattery or sweet talk as a social strategy to build relationships and influence others.
Sweet-talking can activate positive emotions and create a feeling of goodwill in conversational partners.

Literature

Authors often use sweet-talk in dialogue to reveal characters’ intentions, either as sincere affection or manipulative tactics.
Famous literary characters have been known for their sweet-talking abilities, often achieving their goals through charm.

Communication

Sweet-talk can improve interpersonal relationships by creating a warmer, friendlier atmosphere.
It is often contrasted with blunt or harsh communication, showing how language can affect social dynamics.

Origin of 'sweet-talk'

Main points about word origin

The term 'sweet-talk' combines 'sweet', meaning pleasant or nice, and 'talk', which refers to speaking.
It has roots in informal speech and became popular in the 20th century to describe charming or flattering conversation.

The term 'sweet-talk' originated in the early 19th century, combining the words 'sweet' and 'talk'. It refers to the act of using charming or flattering words to persuade or deceive someone. The practice of sweet-talking has been used throughout history in various contexts, from personal relationships to business negotiations.