suck up

USAGE SUMMARY

"suck up" is not a correct word to use in written English.
It is an informal and impolite phrase. You can use it in conversation when you are speaking to a friend informally. For example, "Stop sucking up to the teacher!".

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

I suck up too much air, myself".

The Guardian - Film

No need to suck up useful capital.

The New Yorker

Let your manager suck up to you, if you want someone to suck up to you.

The Guardian - Music

The dredges can suck up fish eggs and small fry.

The New York Times

A vacuum could suck up the adults, we suppose.

The New York Times

But owners do not always suck up to guests.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Leibovich's Suck-Up City is a place without shame.

The New Yorker

In fact, "smarmy suck-up" is my A.T.M. password.

The New York Times

Don't turn into a huge suck-up.

WikiHow

Don't be a suck-up, but don't be a slacker.

WikiHow

Don't be a suck-up and don't follow her everywhere.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "suck up" sparingly in formal writing. Opt for more professional terms like "ingratiate" or "curry favor" in business or academic contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "suck up" in professional emails or reports. It can make you appear unprofessional and undermine your credibility. Choose a more appropriate alternative depending on your need.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "suck up" primarily functions as an idiomatic expression. It can describe either the literal absorption of a liquid or the figurative act of flattering someone excessively for personal gain. Ludwig's examples showcase both usages.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

42%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "suck up" possesses dual meanings: to absorb literally and to ingratiate oneself through flattery. While Ludwig AI categorizes it as acceptable, it leans towards informal usage, making it less suitable for formal or professional writing. Consider context and audience when using "suck up", opting for alternatives like "absorb" or "ingratiate" in more formal settings. Ludwig's examples show its versatility but also highlight its predominantly informal presence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

brown-nose

Informal term for attempting to gain favor through flattery.

toady to

Implies servile behavior motivated by self-interest.

fawn over

Suggests exaggerated displays of affection or attention.

curry favor

Emphasizes seeking advantage by flattering or fawning.

play up to

To behave in a way intended to please someone, especially a superior.

lick someone's boots

Figurative term meaning to be extremely subservient or flattering.

ingratiate oneself

More formal alternative to gaining favor through deliberate effort.

flatter obsequiously

Highlights excessive and insincere flattery.

absorb

Focuses on the action of taking in liquid or other substances.

consume

Highlights the depletion of resources or energy.

FAQs

What does "suck up" mean?

The phrase "suck up" has two main meanings: to absorb liquid or to try to gain favor with someone by flattering them.

Is "suck up" appropriate in formal writing?

No, "suck up" is generally considered informal and is best avoided in formal writing. Use alternatives like "ingratiate oneself" or "curry favor" instead.

What are some synonyms for "suck up" when it means to flatter?

Synonyms for "suck up" (when it means to flatter) include "toady to", "fawn over", and "brown-nose".

How can I use "suck up" in a sentence?

Examples of using "suck up" in a sentence include: "The dry soil sucked up the water" or "He's always trying to suck up to the boss."