curry favor by flattery; sycophant
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesverb
to obtain favor by flattery; to curry favor with superiors
literaryLiterary usage, typically describing the act of gaining imperial or noble favor through sycophancy rather than merit. Carries a strong negative connotation.
During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, many scholars obtained high positions by currying favor with the monarch.
He is an upright person and never curries favor with the powerful.
noun
a person who gains favor by flattery; sycophant; favorite; courtier
literaryRefers specifically to historical figures who gained influence and position through flattery and sycophancy rather than through ability or virtue. Often used in historical texts describing corrupt courts.
The Records of the Grand Historian contains biographies of many sycophants who gained imperial favor.
Throughout history, sycophants who curried favor with rulers often led to governmental corruption.
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When worthy ministers are dismissed and sycophants hold power, the nation is in peril.