Definitions
- Referring to a person who flatters someone in authority or power to gain an advantage. - Describing someone who is overly obedient and subservient to those in authority. - Talking about someone who seeks to gain favor by insincerely praising or flattering others.
- Referring to someone who flatters or ingratiates themselves to gain favor or advantage. - Describing someone who is servile or subservient to those in power. - Talking about someone who fawns over others in a way that is insincere or excessive.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to someone who flatters or ingratiates themselves to gain favor or advantage.
- 2Both words describe someone who is subservient or overly obedient to those in power.
- 3Both words have a negative connotation and imply insincerity or dishonesty.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Sycophant is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as politics or business. Toady is more commonly used in informal contexts, such as personal relationships or social situations.
- 2Connotation: Sycophant has a more negative connotation than toady, implying a greater degree of insincerity or dishonesty.
- 3Frequency: Sycophant is less commonly used than toady in everyday language.
Remember this!
Sycophant and toady are synonyms that both describe someone who flatters or ingratiates themselves to gain favor or advantage. However, sycophant has a more negative connotation and is more commonly used in formal contexts, while toady is more informal and less negative in connotation.
