Truth, Secrecy, & Deception - Flattery & Bragging
Discover how English idioms like "fish for a compliment" and "bow and scrape" relate to flattery and bragging in English.
Review
Flashcards
Quiz
to bow and scrape
[phrase]
to treat someone in authority with high respect, particularly in order to get their approval
Ex: The old-fashioned tradition of bowing and scraping in certain formal ceremonies has largely faded away in modern society.
to kiss one's ass
[phrase]
to try to get something from a person by showing insincere kindness to them
Ex: The insincere politician would do anything to win votes, even resorting to kissing multiple people's asses.
to fish for a compliment
[phrase]
to get people to praise one, often by pretending not to be happy with oneself
Ex: Jane's constant self-deprecating remarks were a clear sign that she was fishing for compliments, seeking reassurance about her abilities.
all mouth (and no trousers)
[phrase]
used to describe someone who never puts their word into action
Ex: Despite his claims of being a skilled athlete , he all mouth and no action when it came to participating in sports .
to lick one's boots
[phrase]
to try to please or get closer to someone for one's personal gain
Ex: She refused to lick anyone's boots and stood up for her principles, even if it meant facing consequences.
Truth, Secrecy, & Deception | |||
---|---|---|---|
Deception | Secrecy | Keeping Secrets | Lying & Exaggeration |
Obviousness | Pretense | Revealing Secrets | Depth & Surface |
Trust & Honesty | Truthfulness | Flattery & Bragging |

Download LanGeek app