use flattery

USAGE SUMMARY

"use flattery" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any context where you want to emphasize being complimentary and ingratiating, usually in order to gain something. For example, "He used flattery to try to convince the boss to give him a raise."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Use flattery.

WikiHow

Don't use flattery, but genuinely give credit where credit is due.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

In Chung's case, it was clear that the Chinese handlers had used flattery to great effect.

The New Yorker

While using flattery on certain wavering lawmakers, he has been aggressive with others, threatening to withhold support from fellow Democrats, for example, who declined to be listed as sponsors of the measure.

The New York Times

3. I have used flattery to get my way.

Asian Journal of Sustainability and Social Responsibility

World Patent Marketing used flattery to convince inventors to use its services, regardless of their invention's merits or patentability, Jones says.

Vice

James Clow is very good as the director H.C. Potter, dealing capably with Irene's many "suggestions" by using flattery, misdirection, humor and bluntness as the moment demands.

Huffington Post

He horrified Salkind by proposing in their first meeting that Jor-El appear as a suitcase or a green bagel with Brando's voice, but Donner used flattery to persuade the actor to portray Jor-El himself.

Wikipedia

Another thing that differentiates con artists from ordinary liars is their nuanced and targeted use of flattery.

The New Yorker

There was also little evidence within the additional text of a clear process model, although the results were similar to those of Black et al. (2015) in that the additional text indicated discussion of plans to meet, the use of flattery, and talking about sexual topics.

Crime Science

They identified similar strategies to those used by offenders in face-to-face grooming, including discussing plans to meet, the use of flattery, identifying parental work schedules and talking about sexual topics, but noted differences in the nature and timing of strategies.

Crime Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you "use flattery", ensure it's subtle and genuine. Overdoing it can come across as insincere and manipulative.

Common error

Don't "use flattery" that is clearly untrue or exaggerated. People can usually spot insincerity, which can damage your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use flattery" functions as a verb phrase, where 'use' is the verb and 'flattery' is the direct object. It describes the act of employing flattery as a means to achieve a desired outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "use flattery" is a grammatically correct phrase describing the act of employing flattery. Ludwig AI confirms this. While not overly common, it appears in diverse contexts like news, wikis, science, and encyclopedias. It often implies insincerity to manipulate or gain favor. When writing, it's advised to "use flattery" subtly and genuinely to avoid being perceived as manipulative. Alternatives include "employ flattery" or "resort to flattery", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

employ flattery

Replaces "use" with "employ", maintaining the same meaning but with a slightly more formal tone.

resort to flattery

Suggests that flattery is being used as a tactic, often when other methods have failed.

apply flattery

Similar to "employ flattery", but implies a more deliberate and tactical approach.

ingratiate oneself with

Focuses on the act of trying to gain favor, where flattery is a common method.

butter someone up

An idiomatic expression meaning to flatter someone excessively to get them to do something.

compliment excessively

Emphasizes the act of giving compliments to an extreme degree, which can be perceived as flattery.

brown-nose

A derogatory term for someone who uses flattery to gain favor with someone in authority.

suck up to

A slang term for using flattery to gain favor, often implying insincerity.

fawn over

To show excessive affection or flattery.

use sweet talk

Focuses on using charming or flattering language to persuade or manipulate.

FAQs

How can I "use flattery" effectively?

The key is to be sincere and specific in your compliments. Focus on genuine qualities or accomplishments rather than making generic statements.

What is the difference between genuine compliments and "use flattery"?

Genuine compliments are based on sincere appreciation, while "use flattery" often involves insincere praise intended to manipulate or gain favor.

What are some alternatives to "use flattery"?

Consider using phrases like "employ flattery", "resort to flattery", or "apply flattery" depending on the context.

Is it always wrong to "use flattery"?

Not necessarily. Using sincere compliments can be a way to build rapport and show appreciation. However, using insincere flattery for manipulative purposes is generally considered unethical.