false flattery crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "false flattery" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with their lengths and brief explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "false flattery crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SOAP: Informal term for insincere praise or flattery.
5 Letters
SMARM: Excessively ingratiating or unctuous speech or manner, implying insincerity.
7 Letters
BLARNEY: Amusing and deceptive talk; persuasive flattery, often insincere.
FAWNING: Displaying excessive flattery or affection; obsequious and often false.
8 Letters
CAJOLERY: Persuasion by flattery or promises; wheedling, often with an element of deceit.
SOFT_SOAP: Flattery or persuasive talk, especially when insincere or intended to deceive.
9 Letters
ADULATION: Excessive admiration or praise, which can be insincere or exaggerated to gain favor.
10 Letters
SYCOPHANCY: Obsequious flattery; excessive subservient praise, implying a false or manipulative motive.
More About "false flattery crossword clue"
"False flattery" is a classic crossword clue that targets words describing insincere praise, often given to manipulate or deceive. These types of clues test your vocabulary for nuanced terms related to human interaction and social dynamics. Common answers range from informal expressions like "soap" or "soft-soap" to more formal, precise words like "sycophancy" or "cajolery."
Understanding the subtle differences between genuine praise and its insincere counterpart is key to solving these clues. Crossword setters love words that have a specific, sometimes negative, connotation. When you see "false flattery," think of words that imply hidden motives, excessive fawning, or slick talk designed to achieve an ulterior goal rather than express true admiration.
Familiarizing yourself with the various synonyms for disingenuous praise will significantly boost your crossword-solving ability. Many of these terms have historical or literary origins, adding depth to their meaning and making them perfect candidates for challenging clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Tone: Crossword clues often hint at the tone of the answer. "False flattery" strongly suggests a negative or critical tone, guiding you towards words like "smarm" or "sycophancy" rather than neutral terms for praise.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match your potential answers with the provided letter count. This is the single most effective way to narrow down possibilities, especially when multiple words could fit the clue's meaning.
- Look for Overlap with Other Clues: Sometimes, the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words can give you crucial hints. Use these confirmed letters to fill in blanks for "false flattery," making it easier to see the correct word.
- Think of Idioms and Phrases: "False flattery" can sometimes lead to multi-word answers, but more often, it points to single-word synonyms or informal terms. Be prepared for both, but prioritize single words unless the letter count is very high.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'false flattery' mean in a crossword context?
'False flattery' in crosswords typically refers to insincere praise or deceptive compliments given to manipulate someone or gain favor. Answers often include words like 'blarney,' 'cajolery,' or 'soft-soap' that convey this exact meaning.
How do I determine the length of the 'false flattery' answer?
The required length for any crossword answer is almost always indicated by a number in parentheses next to the clue. For 'false flattery crossword clue,' you should look for (4), (7), (8), (9), or (10) to guide you to the correct solution.
Are there common alternative clues for answers to 'false flattery'?
Yes, many words that answer 'false flattery' can also be clued in other ways. For example, 'Blarney' might be clued as 'Irish charm' or 'sweet talk.' 'Cajolery' might be 'wheedling.' Always consider multiple angles for a given word.