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

flashcard

spelling

quiz

start-learning

to [bow] and [scrape] [phrase]

to treat someone in authority with high respect, particularly in order to get their approval

Ex: The salesperson 's attempts to bow and scrape to the demanding customer only resulted in further frustration and dissatisfaction .

to [kiss] {one's} [ass] [phrase]

to try to get something from a person by showing insincere kindness to them

Ex: The arrogant celebrity demanded that the hotel staff kiss his ass , displaying a sense of entitlement and superiority .

to [fish] for a compliment [phrase]

to get people to praise one, often by pretending not to be happy with oneself

Ex: When John showed off his cooking skills , he kept glancing at his guests , hoping they would fish for a compliment about the delicious meal .

all mouth (and no trousers|) [phrase]

used to describe someone who never puts their word into action

Ex: She claimed she would confront the bully , but in the end , she proved to be all mouth and backed down when confronted .

to [lick] {one's} boots [phrase]

to try to please or get closer to someone for one's personal gain

Ex:

Truth, Secrecy, & Deception
Deception	Secrecy	Keeping Secrets	Lying & Exaggeration
Obviousness	Pretense	Revealing Secrets	Depth & Surface
Trust & Honesty	Truthfulness	Flattery & Bragging