Definitions
- Describing insincere or excessive flattery used to gain favor or manipulate someone. - Referring to a person who is excessively ingratiating or obsequious in their behavior. - Talking about a false or exaggerated display of charm or friendliness for personal gain.
- Describing praise or compliments given to someone to make them feel good or gain their favor. - Referring to a positive comment or remark about someone's appearance, abilities, or achievements. - Talking about a sincere or genuine expression of admiration or appreciation for someone.
List of Similarities
- 1Both involve giving compliments or praise to someone.
- 2Both can be used to gain favor or influence over someone.
- 3Both can be insincere or exaggerated in their delivery.
- 4Both can be used in social or professional contexts.
- 5Both can be perceived as manipulative or dishonest.
What is the difference?
- 1Intention: Smarm is often used with the intention of manipulating or deceiving someone, while flattery can be used with the intention of making someone feel good or appreciated.
- 2Sincerity: Smarm is typically insincere and exaggerated, while flattery can be genuine and heartfelt.
- 3Delivery: Smarm can be delivered in a way that is overly ingratiating or obsequious, while flattery can be delivered in a more subtle or nuanced way.
- 4Perception: Smarm is often perceived as negative or manipulative, while flattery can be perceived as positive or harmless.
- 5Frequency: Smarm is less commonly used than flattery in everyday language.
Remember this!
Smarm and flattery are both words used to describe the act of giving compliments or praise to someone. However, the difference between the two is their intention and sincerity. Smarm is often used with the intention of manipulating or deceiving someone, and is typically insincere and exaggerated in its delivery. On the other hand, flattery can be genuine and heartfelt, and is often used with the intention of making someone feel good or appreciated.
