Synonyms for

Flattering

Verb / ˈflætɜ:ɪŋ / Another word for flattering — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Flattering means making someone feel good or better about themselves, often by saying things that are not completely true.

Synonyms & similar words

flatter disparage unflattering blandish complimentary fawning cloying ingratiating sycophantic honeyed blandishing unctuous obsequious buttery adulatory bootlicking soft-soaping servile overpraising oiliness smarmy unctuosity fulsome grovelling

Synonyms by register

Formal

commendatory approving laudatory complimentary

Informal

nice good sweet kind

Literary

adulatory panegyrical

Antonyms

unflattering disparaging critical insulting belittling derogatory negative

Common collocations

  • very flattering
  • extremely flattering
  • quite flattering
  • flattering to
  • flattering light
  • flattering remark
  • flattering offer

Word family

noun flattery
verb flatter
adjective flattering
adverb flatteringly

Usage note

Often used to describe compliments or appearances that make someone look or feel better than they might otherwise. Can sometimes imply insincerity, depending on context.

Example sentences

  1. The saleswoman said the shirt was flattering, but it was too tight on me.
  2. He gave her a flattering compliment and she blushed.
  3. The politician made a flattering speech to win over the crowd.
  4. She looked in the mirror and felt confident because the dress was so flattering.
  5. He received a flattering review for his new book.

Quotes

  • 'Flattery is like cologne water, to be smelt, not swallowed.' - Josh Billings
  • 'Flattery is all right so long as you don't inhale.' - Adlai Stevenson
  • 'Flattery is from the teeth out. Sincere appreciation is from the heart out.' - Dale Carnegie

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