blandish
/'blændiʃ/
Definition
- Verb:
- To use flattery or coaxing words to persuade someone, often in a way that is insincere or excessively pleasing.
Usage
The verb "blandish" is used to describe the act of trying to influence someone's attitude or behavior by using flattering or coaxing speech. It often carries a connotation of insincerity or manipulation. It is a formal and somewhat literary term.
Examples
- The salesperson tried to blandish the hesitant customer with exaggerated compliments about their taste.
- He did not blandish his superiors; he earned their respect through hard work.
- Politicians are often accused of using their speeches to blandish the public rather than address real issues.
Advanced Usage
- "to blandish someone into doing something": This structure emphasizes the goal of the flattery.
- She attempted to blandish her father into buying her the expensive car.
Variants and Related Words
- Blandishment (noun): Flattering or pleasing statements or actions used to persuade someone gently.
- He was immune to her blandishments and refused to change his decision.
Synonyms
- Flatter
- Coax
- Wheedle
- Cajole
Antonyms
- Insult
- Offend
- Criticize
Related Phrases
- While "blandish" itself is not commonly used in modern phrasal verbs, its synonyms are:
- Butter up (phrasal verb, informal): To flatter someone excessively.
- He's just buttering up the boss to get a promotion.
Verb
-
praise somewhat dishonestly
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