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flatter

[ˈflætər]

flatter Definition

  • 1to praise someone in a way that is not sincere, usually to get something from them
  • 2to make someone look or feel more attractive or better than usual
  • 3to please or satisfy someone's ego or vanity

Using flatter: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "flatter" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He flattered her with compliments to get her to do what he wanted.

  • Example

    The dress flatters her figure.

  • Example

    The chef was flattered by the positive review of his restaurant.

flatter Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for flatter

Phrases with flatter

  • to believe something positive about oneself that may not be true

    Example

    She flattered herself that she was the best candidate for the job.

  • saying nice things to someone will not make them do what you want if they don't want to

    Example

    He tried to flatter his boss into giving him a raise, but she refused. Flattery will get you nowhere.

  • fish for compliments

    to try to get someone to say nice things about you

    Example

    She was fishing for compliments about her new haircut.

Origins of flatter

from Old French 'flater', meaning 'to smooth, stroke'

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Summary: flatter in Brief

To 'flatter' [ˈflætər] someone is to praise insincerely, often to gain something in return. It can also mean to make someone look or feel better than usual. Examples include 'He flattered her with compliments to get her to do what he wanted.' and 'The dress flatters her figure.' Phrases like 'flattery will get you nowhere' and 'fish for compliments' are also common.

How do native speakers use this expression?