Usage and Nuance
The verb 讨好 (tǎohǎo) means to flatter or to curry favor with someone, often implying a somewhat insincere or strategic attempt to gain advantage or approval. It is commonly used in social and workplace contexts where someone tries to please a person in power or authority.
Common Collocations
- 讨好老板 (tǎohǎo lǎobǎn): to flatter the boss, often to gain benefits like promotion or favors.
- 讨好父母 (tǎohǎo fùmǔ): to please or flatter parents, sometimes children do this to get something they want.
- 讨好同事 (tǎohǎo tóngshì): to curry favor with colleagues, which can sometimes be perceived as insincere.
Register and Tone
This word often carries a slightly negative or critical tone, suggesting that the person is not being fully genuine but rather trying to manipulate or gain advantage. It is not usually used in formal writing but common in spoken language and informal contexts.
Avoiding Confusion
Do not confuse 讨好 with 真诚 (zhēnchéng, sincere). While 讨好 involves pleasing others, it often implies a lack of sincerity. When you want to express genuine kindness or goodwill, other words are more appropriate.