flatterer

Thân thiện

A flatterer gives the king many compliments on his new crown.

Definition

Noun: A person who uses flattery; someone who praises others excessively and often insincerely to gain favor or advantage.

Usage

The word "flatterer" is used to describe a person whose characteristic behavior is to give excessive, self-serving compliments. It carries a negative connotation, implying that the praise is not genuine but is a tool for manipulation.

Examples

• The king was surrounded by flatterers who told him only what he wanted to hear.
• Don't trust him; he's a known flatterer who says nice things just to get a promotion.
• She saw through the flatterer's sweet words and recognized his true intentions.

Advanced Usage

• "To be no flatterer": This phrase is used to assert that one's praise or criticism is honest and direct.
  • I will speak plainly, for I am no flatterer.
• The term can be used in a historical or literary context to describe courtiers or sycophants.
  • In the play, the tragic hero is misled by the lies of the flatterers in his court.

Variants and Related Words

• Flatter (verb): To praise someone excessively, especially from self-interest. (e.g., )
• Flattery (noun): Excessive and insincere praise. (e.g., )
• Flattering (adjective): Complimentary, making someone look or feel good. (Note: This adjective can be used sincerely, unlike "flatterer." e.g., )

Synonyms

• Sycophant
• Toady
• Yes-man
• Adulator
• Fawner

Idioms and Phrases

• Flatterer's trap: A situation where insincere praise is used to deceive or manipulate someone.
  • He avoided the flatterer's trap by remaining skeptical of unwarranted praise.
• Beware of the flatterer: A common piece of advice warning that excessive praise is often a prelude to deceit.
  • My grandfather's advice was simple: "Beware of the flatterer."

Học thuật

Noun

1. a person who uses flattery

Từ đồng nghĩa

• adulator