Compliment vs. Flattery: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on September 30, 2023
Compliment refers to a genuine expression of praise or admiration, while flattery is often insincere praise given to gain favor or advantage. Compliments are generally heartfelt, whereas flattery may have ulterior motives.
Key Differences
Compliment and flattery, both nouns, are terms that pertain to the act of praising or admiring someone. However, there are nuanced differences that set them apart. A compliment is a polite expression that sincerely highlights someone's ability, achievement, or favorable quality. Flattery, on the other hand, may also involve praise but is often insincere and driven by an ulterior motive such as gaining favor or manipulating someone.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
Grammatically speaking, both "compliment" and "flattery" function primarily as nouns but can also be used as verbs when describing the act of giving praise. To "compliment" someone means to offer genuine praise, while to "flatter" suggests the act may not be completely sincere. For example, you compliment someone's skills because you truly appreciate them; you flatter someone to get something in return.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
Contextually, compliments are usually straightforward and given without expectation of anything in return. They are often spontaneous reactions to something admirable. Flattery, conversely, is often more calculated and may be employed strategically to gain some sort of benefit, whether it's favor, influence, or material gain.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
Culturally, the perception of what constitutes a compliment or flattery can vary. In some cultures, straightforward compliments are highly valued, while in others, subtlety might be preferred. Similarly, flattery, even if a bit exaggerated, may be considered socially acceptable in some cultures, while being looked down upon in others as deceitful or manipulative.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Cultural Interpretation
Varies, but generally positive
Varies, may be seen as manipulative
Janet White
Sep 27, 2023
Compliment and Flattery Definitions
Compliment
A polite expression of admiration.
He received a compliment on his excellent presentation.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 19, 2023
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Flattery
Inauthentic or exaggerated praise.
He saw through the flattery and declined the offer.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 19, 2023
Compliment
A gift or gesture as a token of appreciation.
She sent a bouquet as a compliment to the host.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 19, 2023
Flattery
Compliment given to gain favor.
Her flattery was aimed at getting a promotion.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 19, 2023
Compliment
Courteous recognition.
His work received many compliments from the industry.
Harlon Moss
Sep 19, 2023
Flattery
Insincere commendation.
The candidate relied on flattery to win votes.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 19, 2023
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Compliment
Compliments Good wishes; regards
Extend my compliments to your parents. See Usage Note at complement.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Flattery
(uncountable) Excessive praise or approval, which is often insincere and sometimes contrived to win favour.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Compliment
To show fondness, regard, or respect for by giving a gift or performing a favor.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Flattery
The act or practice of flattering; the act of pleasing by artful commendation or compliments; adulation; false, insincere, or excessive praise.
Just praise is only a debt, but flattery is a present.
Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Compliment
An expression of praise, congratulation, or respect.
Pay someone a compliment
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Flattery
Praise with deceitful intentions.
She was cautious of the flattery coming from a rival.
Harlon Moss
Sep 19, 2023
Compliment
(ambitransitive) To pay a compliment (to someone); to express a favourable opinion (of someone).
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Compliment
An expression, by word or act, of approbation, regard, confidence, civility, or admiration; a flattering speech or attention; a ceremonious greeting; as, to send one's compliments to a friend.
Tedious waste of time, to sit and hearSo many hollow compliments and lies.
Many a compliment politely penned.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Compliment
To praise, flatter, or gratify, by expressions of approbation, respect, or congratulation; to make or pay a compliment to.
Monarchs should their inward soul disguise; . . . Should compliment their foes and shun their friends.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Compliment
To pass compliments; to use conventional expressions of respect.
I make the interlocutors, upon occasion, compliment with one another.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Compliment
Say something to someone that expresses praise;
He complimented her on her last physics paper
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 17, 2023
Compliment
Sincere praise or commendation.
Your compliment made my day better.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 19, 2023
Compliment
A flattering remark.
She blushed at the compliment on her appearance.
Janet White
Sep 19, 2023
FAQs
Can Flattery be a verb?
Yes, "to flatter" means to give praise, often insincerely, for personal gain.
Harlon Moss
Sep 27, 2023
How do Compliment and Flattery differ?
Compliments are generally sincere, while flattery often has ulterior motives.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
What is Flattery?
Flattery is often insincere praise given to gain favor or advantage.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
Is Compliment always positive?
Generally yes, as it aims to express admiration or approval.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 27, 2023
Is Flattery always dishonest?
Not necessarily, but it often carries a connotation of insincerity.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
How should one respond to Flattery?
Caution and skepticism are advised when responding to flattery.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
What is a Compliment?
A compliment is a sincere expression of praise or admiration.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
Can Compliment be a verb?
Yes, "to compliment" means to offer genuine praise.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
Is Flattery always negative?
Not always, but it is often viewed skeptically due to potential ulterior motives.
Sara Rehman
Sep 27, 2023
Can Flattery ever be a form of Compliment?
While both involve praise, flattery can be a form of compliment if it is sincere, though this is rare.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 27, 2023
Can Compliments be harmful?
Generally no, unless they are false and intended to deceive.
Harlon Moss
Sep 27, 2023
How can one spot insincere Flattery?
Look for exaggeration or praise that aims to gain something in return.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 27, 2023
Are Compliments culturally universal?
While the act of complimenting exists universally, how it's expressed can vary by culture.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
How should one respond to a Compliment?
A simple "thank you" is generally an appropriate response.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 27, 2023
Is Flattery more prevalent in certain professions?
Yes, in professions that involve persuasion like sales or politics, flattery is more common.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 27, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
