time-pleaser
Definition
- Noun:
- A person who adapts their behavior to suit the prevailing fashion, opinion, or circumstances of the time, often for personal advantage or to avoid conflict. This term carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of integrity or principle.
Usage Examples
- (A person who changes their views to match the current authority.)
- (Someone who adjusts their opinions to gain popularity or favor.)
Advanced Usage
- "to be a time-pleaser": to act in a way that consistently follows the trends or expectations of the moment.
- In the competitive world of fashion, many designers become time-pleasers, abandoning their unique style for what is currently popular. (They prioritize current trends over originality.)
Variants and Related Words
Time-serving (adj): characterized by adapting one's actions to the times, especially for selfish reasons.
- His time-serving attitude made him unpopular with colleagues who valued honesty. (His behavior of changing to suit circumstances was seen as insincere.)
Time-server (n): a synonym for time-pleaser; a person who follows current fashions or opinions for personal gain.
- She was a time-server, always praising the latest political leader. (She flattered whoever was in charge.)
Synonyms
- Opportunist: someone who takes advantage of opportunities with little regard for principles.
- Conformist: a person who behaves according to the accepted standards of the time.
- Follower: one who imitates or adopts the opinions of others.
Related Idioms
To go with the flow: to do what others are doing or to accept the prevailing situation.
- He is not a time-pleaser; he refuses to go with the flow when it conflicts with his values. (He does not adapt to trends if they oppose his beliefs.)
To blow with the wind: to change one's opinions or actions according to circumstances.
- A true time-pleaser blows with the wind, never holding a firm stance. (They shift easily with changing conditions.)