Definition

1. Verb:
   • To gain favor or approval from someone through deliberate, calculated, or flattering efforts. The action is typically self-serving, aiming to make oneself liked, accepted, or well-regarded by another person or group.

Usage

• The verb "ingratiate" is almost always used reflexively as "ingratiate oneself with" someone. It describes a conscious strategy to win someone's good graces.
• The tone is often neutral to slightly negative, implying the efforts are not entirely genuine or are overly calculated.
• Example:

Examples

Advanced Usage

• While "ingratiate" typically implies a degree of insincerity, it can sometimes be used in a more neutral context simply meaning "to make oneself acceptable."
  • The ambassador's first task was to ingratiate himself with the local customs to build trust.

Variants and Related Words

• Ingratiating (adjective): Describing behavior intended to gain favor, often in a way that seems insincere or excessive.
  • He spoke in an ingratiating tone that made his colleagues suspicious.
• Ingratiation (noun): The act or process of trying to gain favor.
  • His constant ingratiation was transparent and ineffective.

Synonyms

• Curry favor: To seek to gain favor by flattery or attention.
• Flatter: To praise excessively, especially from self-interest.
• Suck up to (informal): To behave obsequiously towards someone to gain advantage.
• Toady to: To act in an obsequious way to gain favor.

Antonyms

• Alienate: To cause someone to become unfriendly or hostile.
• Antagonize: To incur someone's dislike or hostility.
• Offend: To cause someone to feel upset or annoyed.

Related Phrases

• "Ingratiate oneself into": Similar to "ingratiate oneself with," but can imply becoming part of a group.
  • He managed to ingratiate himself into the inner circle of advisors.

Verb

1. gain favor with somebody by deliberate efforts