Author
Home > Sociology > What is the Difference Between Flattery and Compliment?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Flattery and Compliment?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between flattery and a compliment lies in their sincerity and motives.

  • Flattery refers to insincere or excessive praise, often given with an ulterior motive, such as furthering one's own interests. Flattery can be vague, undefined, and even false. It has negative connotations and is usually not a good way to impress anyone, as it shows insincerity and dishonesty.
  • Compliment is a polite expression of sincere praise and appreciation. Compliments are typically genuine and given without an ulterior motive. They have positive connotations and are used to show respect and gratitude for someone's actions, appearance, or accomplishments.

In summary, flattery is excessive or insincere praise, often with a selfish motive, while compliments are genuine expressions of praise and appreciation.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Flattery and Compliment?
  • Comparative Table: Flattery vs Compliment

    • Comparative Table: Flattery vs Compliment

    Here is a table comparing the differences between flattery and compliments:

    Feature Flattery Compliment
    Definition Excessive or insincere praise given with an ulterior motive. Genuine appreciation of someone or something.
    Meaning Insinere or excessive praise. Polite expression of praise and admiration.
    Connotations Negative connotations, as it is often seen as insincere or manipulative. Positive connotations, as it is genuine and sincere.
    Motive Ulterior, selfish motive, such as to further one's own interests. No ulterior motive; only a sincere expression of appreciation.
    Sincerity Insincere. Sincere and genuine.
    Perception Can be viewed negatively if the receiver detects deception or insincerity. Seen positively, as it demonstrates gratitude and appreciation.

    In summary, flattery is excessive or insincere praise given with the intention of furthering one's own interests, while compliments are genuine expressions of appreciation and admiration. Flattery is often seen negatively due to its insincerity and manipulative nature, whereas compliments are viewed positively as they demonstrate gratitude and sincerity.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.