Curry favor definitions
| Word backwards | yrruc rovaf |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | "Curry" is a verb and "favor" is a noun, making "curry favor" a verb phrase. |
| Syllabic division | cur-ry fa-vor |
| Plural | The plural of "curry favor" is "curry favors." |
| Total letters | 10 |
| Vogais (3) | u,a,o |
| Consonants (5) | c,r,y,f,v |
When someone tries to curry favor, they are attempting to gain someone's approval or favor through flattery or other means. This phrase dates back to the 16th century and was originally used in the context of trying to win favor from a king or ruler by literally currying their horses, which was seen as a menial task.
Origins of the Phrase
The term "curry favor" has its roots in the practice of grooming horses with a curry comb. The act of currying was considered a humble and servile task, making it a fitting metaphor for the behavior of someone who is trying to gain favor through flattery or other means.
Meaning and Usage
Today, to curry favor means to try to win someone's favor through insincere flattery or other manipulative tactics. This phrase is often used in a negative context, implying that the person is being dishonest or deceitful in their attempts to gain favor.
Alternatives
There are several synonyms for the phrase "curry favor," including "brown-nose," "apple-polish," and "butter up." These terms all imply a similar meaning of trying to gain favor through flattery or manipulation.
In conclusion, to curry favor is to try to win someone's approval or favor through insincere flattery or other manipulative tactics. This phrase has its origins in the practice of grooming horses, and it is often used in a negative context to imply deceitful behavior. Remember, true relationships are built on authenticity and honesty, not on trying to manipulate or flatter others.
Curry favor Examples
- She complimented her boss's tie in an attempt to curry favor for a promotion.
- The politician offered gifts to curry favor with potential voters.
- The student volunteered to stay after class to curry favor with the teacher.
- The employee brought coffee for the team to curry favor with her colleagues.
- He regularly stayed late at work to curry favor with his supervisor.
- The company donated a large sum of money to curry favor with the community.
- She complimented her friend's new haircut to curry favor for a favor in return.
- The athlete signed autographs for fans to curry favor with the media.
- The student offered to tutor his classmates to curry favor with the teacher.
- The restaurant gave free samples to curry favor with potential customers.