flattering words

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flattering words" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to compliments or praise that are intended to please someone. Example: "She always knows how to charm her audience with her flattering words."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Flattering words in a toast can be undone because of poor form.

BBC

She wanted deeds more than flattering words.

The Guardian

Her residence this season, Sunday's recital aside, made you believe those flattering words.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Bloomberg had kind but hardly flattering words to say about his teammate's performance.

The New York Times

Her flattering words of thanks to our supporters, which screened a plea for still greater largesse, impressed me with their genuine, awkward grace.

The New Yorker

Celtic arrived at El Madrigal Stadium in sleepy Villarreal de los Infantes for training last night to find flattering words awaiting them.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"We're focusing our collection, and you can use other words, flattering or otherwise, for focusing, if you'd like.

The New York Times - Arts

According to Ondrej Bartos, the partner at Credo Ventures, Prague-based venture fund which sponsored the event, the level of companies was really high today and he was, to use his own words "flattered that two Czech companies have been selected".

TechCrunch

(Strahan was flattered, calling her words an "incredible compliment"). .

Los Angeles Times

She was, in her own words, flattered that he was paying attention to her.

Huffington Post

It was flattering to recognize my words in Paul Krugman's June 4 column about economic ideologies.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "flattering words" when you want to describe praise that is intended to please or impress someone, but be mindful of the context, as it can sometimes imply insincerity.

Common error

While "flattering words" is acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make your tone seem insincere. Opt for more direct and specific praise or commendation instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flattering words" functions as a noun phrase, where "flattering" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "words". As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase describes words intended to please or impress someone.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

16%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "flattering words" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes compliments or praise designed to please or impress someone. According to Ludwig AI, it is found most frequently in news and media sources. While generally positive, the phrase can sometimes imply insincerity. When writing, be mindful of the context and consider alternative phrases like "complimentary remarks" or "praiseful expressions" depending on the nuance you want to convey. Be cautious of overusing "flattering words" in formal writing where sincerity is key. As Ludwig examples show, the expression may be effective when building consensus or for promotional reasons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complimentary remarks

Focuses on the act of complimenting, implying a more direct expression of praise.

praiseful expressions

Highlights the act of giving praise, suggesting a more overt and laudatory tone.

kind words

Highlights the positive and benevolent nature of the expressions, focusing on their positive impact.

appreciative remarks

Highlights the appreciation being conveyed, suggesting a sincere expression of gratitude.

adulatory comments

Implies excessive flattery or admiration, potentially bordering on insincerity.

laudatory statements

Refers to formal and public expressions of praise, often used in official contexts.

positive feedback

Focuses on the evaluative aspect of the praise, often used in professional or developmental contexts.

glowing tributes

Emphasizes the positive and celebratory nature of the praise, often used in honor of someone.

sweet talk

Suggests insincere or manipulative flattery, often used to persuade or charm.

buttering up

Implies an attempt to gain favor through excessive flattery, often with ulterior motives.

FAQs

How can I use "flattering words" in a sentence?

You can use "flattering words" to describe compliments or praise designed to please someone. For example, "She used "flattering words" to win over the client".

What are some alternatives to "flattering words"?

Alternatives include "complimentary remarks", "praiseful expressions", or "adulatory comments", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "flattering words" always positive?

While generally positive, "flattering words" can sometimes imply insincerity or manipulation, suggesting the praise is not entirely genuine.

What's the difference between "flattering words" and "honest praise"?

"Flattering words" may be exaggerated or insincere, intended to please, whereas "honest praise" is genuine and based on sincere appreciation or admiration.