tâng công

Definition
  1. Verb:
    • To flatter for credit: To use flattery or show exaggerated zeal in order to gain recognition, credit, or favor for one's efforts.
    • To curry favor through ostentatious diligence: To conspicuously demonstrate diligence or eagerness with the primary aim of receiving praise or reward.
Usage Examples
  • Verb:
    • Anh ta luôn tâng công trước mặt sếp. (He always flatters for credit in front of the boss.)
    • Đừng tâng công, hãy làm việc thật lòng. (Don't curry favor through showy diligence; work sincerely.)
    • Hành động tâng công của cô ấy thật dễ nhận ra. (Her act of flattering for credit is very easy to recognize.)
Advanced Usage
  • The term often carries a strong negative connotation, implying insincerity, manipulation, and a focus on appearances rather than genuine contribution.
  • It is typically used in contexts of hierarchies, such as workplaces or organizations, where individuals seek advancement or special treatment.
Variants and Related Words
  • Nịnh nọt (v): to flatter, to adulate. This is a broader term for flattery, while specifies flattery aimed at gaining credit for work.
  • Lấy lòng (v): to ingratiate oneself, to curry favor. This is a general phrase for seeking favor, not necessarily tied to work credit.
Synonyms
  • To brown-nose (slang): to flatter someone in authority to gain favor.
  • To suck up to (someone) (idiomatic): to ingratiate oneself with someone through flattery.
  • To curry favor: to seek to gain favor through flattery or attentiveness.
Related Idioms
  • "Khoe công": to boast about one's achievements. While is about openly boasting, is more about the ingratiating behavior aimed at credit.
  • "Nịnh hót": to flatter excessively. This is a close synonym but lacks the specific nuance of seeking credit.