Butter Up – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever seen someone give lots of compliments to a teacher before asking for an extension, or praise their boss nonstop before requesting a raise? In English, we say they’re trying to butter someone up! This playful idiom means to flatter or praise someone excessively—usually to win favor or get something in return.
What Does “Butter Up” Mean?
“Butter up” means to use flattery or sweet words to make someone feel good—often with the hidden goal of getting a favor, gift, or advantage. Think of it like spreading smooth butter on bread to make it more appealing! The phrase isn’t about real butter; it’s a lighthearted way to say, “They’re being extra nice to get what they want.”
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or humorous conversations with friends, family, or coworkers when someone is laying on the charm a little too thick. It’s common when talking about kids sweet-talking parents, employees praising bosses, or friends asking for big favors. This idiom is informal and often used with a wink—it’s not usually meant to be harsh, just observant.
Example Sentences
- He’s been buttering up his professor all week—now he’s asking for a deadline extension.
- Don’t think I didn’t notice you buttering me up just to borrow my car!
- She buttered up the manager so she could get the best shift.
- My nephew brought me flowers and called me “the coolest aunt ever”—he’s definitely trying to butter me up for a new video game.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “Why did you tell your boss his presentation was ‘life-changing’?”
Jamie: “I need next Friday off. Gotta butter him up a little!”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use “butter up” to describe genuine, heartfelt compliments. It only applies when the praise feels exaggerated or has a clear ulterior motive—not when someone is being sincerely kind.
❌ Don’t say: “She told me I did a great job—she’s buttering me up.” (If it was honest feedback.)
✅ Do say: “He called me a genius right before asking to copy my homework—he’s buttering me up.”
Practice Tip
Next time you notice someone giving suspiciously sweet compliments before making a request, smile and say: “Ah, you’re buttering me up!” It’s a fun, natural way to call out flattery in English.
Final Note
Now you can use “butter up” to spot (and gently tease) strategic flattery in everyday life! It’s a cheeky but common phrase that adds humor to human behavior. Keep using it—and remember, a little butter is nice… but too much just makes things slippery!