butter someone up

After failed attempt to butter Irann regime up, Trump starts putting oil to the fire of war
Carl von Clauswitz



"Buttering you up" means to flatter or praise someone excessively, often to gain their favor or influence their decision.
Definition and Usage
The phrase "butter someone up" is an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of flattering or complimenting someone in order to make them more receptive to a request, favor, or idea. It often implies a strategic or somewhat manipulative intent, though it can also be genuine praise. For example, a student might butter up a teacher by complimenting their class before asking for an extension on an assignment, or someone might butter up a boss to increase the chances of a promotion or raise
Cambridge University Press & Assessment
Cambridge University Press & Assessment
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How It Works
The metaphor comes from the idea of spreading butter on bread to make it smoother and more appealing. Similarly, when you "butter someone up," you are smoothing over potential objections or resistance with praise or compliments, making the person more agreeable or willing to listen
quipsilver.com
quipsilver.com
+1
. It can be used in various tenses: "buttered up," "buttering up," or "butter up."

Historical Background
The phrase has roots dating back to the early 19th century, with some theories tracing it to ancient India, where throwing butter balls at statues of gods was believed to bring favor and forgiveness. Over time, this practice evolved metaphorically into the English idiom, symbolizing the act of using flattery to gain favor
idiomintel.com
idiomintel.com
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Examples
"I tried to butter up my father by mowing the lawn before asking to borrow the car."
"She always butters up the boss before requesting time off."
"Any time one of my kids starts buttering me up, I'm immediately suspicious."
Understanding this phrase helps in recognizing whether praise is genuine admiration or strategic flattery, which is useful in both personal and professional interactions
The Free Dictionary
The Free Dictionary
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