Definition

Adverb: In a manner intended to gain approval, favor, or affection, often through flattery or pleasing behavior. It describes an action done to make oneself liked, especially by someone in a position of power or authority.

Usage

The adverb "ingratiatingly" modifies a verb, describing how an action is performed. It is used to indicate that the action is done with the conscious aim of pleasing someone, often in a way that may seem insincere or calculated.

Examples

• She smiled ingratiatingly at the committee members, hoping to win their support.
• He laughed ingratiatingly at the manager's joke, even though it wasn't funny.
• The assistant spoke ingratiatingly, constantly agreeing with everything the director said.

Advanced Usage

• Used to describe calculated behavior: Often implies the behavior is not genuine but a strategic effort to gain favor.
  • The lobbyist argued his case ingratiatingly, carefully avoiding any point of contention.
• Can have a negative connotation: May suggest obsequiousness, fawning, or a lack of sincerity.
  • His ingratiatingly polite manner made his colleagues distrust him.

Variants and Related Words

• Ingratiating (adjective): Describes a person or their behavior as intended to gain favor.
  • He has an ingratiating smile.
• Ingratiate (verb, often used reflexively): To bring oneself into favor with someone.
  • He tried to ingratiate himself with the new boss.

Synonyms

• Fawningly: In an excessively flattering or servile way.
• Obsequiously: In an obedient or attentive manner to an excessive or servile degree.
• Sycophantically: In a manner characteristic of a sycophant; behaving obsequiously to gain advantage.
• Flatteringly: In a way that praises someone excessively, especially to gain favor.

Antonyms

• Assertively: In a confident and forceful manner.
• Defiantly: In a manner that shows open resistance or bold disobedience.
• Brusquely: In an abrupt or offhand manner.

Adverb

1. in a flattering and ingratiating manner
   • she behaves ingratiatingly toward her boss