お世辞

おせじ
Alternative writings: 御世辞
JLPT:N1
Frequency:
1

Flattering words or compliments said to please someone or gain favor; often not fully sincere.

Noun

Examples

上司にお世辞を言っても意味がないと思う。

I don't think flattering my boss will do any good.

『それはお世辞にも上手だとは言えないよ』と彼は言った。

He said, 'You couldn't even call that good, even as a compliment.'

彼女はお世辞が上手で、初対面でも場を和ませる。

She is good at flattery and lightens the mood even on first meetings.

お世辞だと分かっていても、悪い気はしない。

Even knowing it's flattery, it doesn't feel bad.

Word Relationships

Synonyms
Antonym