Butter up Crossword Clue

Today's (25 February 2024) crossword provided to us by Mirror classic and the clue is "Butter up".
The right answer or rather the best answer listed below:

Understanding Today's Crossword Puzzle

Today's clue is "Butter up" and the answer is "FLATTER". Let's break down the clue and explain why this answer fits.

1. The clue "Butter up" is a common phrase that means to flatter or praise someone insincerely in order to gain favor.
2. The word "butter" in the clue is a figurative term for applying flattery, much like spreading butter on bread.
3. The word "up" suggests the act of doing something to completion or intensifying it. In this case, it signifies the action of flattery.
4. The answer "FLATTER" perfectly matches the clue as it directly reflects the act of buttering someone up.

"FLATTER" is an appropriate word for this clue because it accurately represents the concept of using insincere praise to gain favor. It aligns with the colloquial meaning of "butter up" and is commonly used in English-speaking countries.

If we look at the structure of the clue itself, it fits the pattern commonly used in crossword puzzles, where a phrase or word with a double meaning is used. In this case, "butter up" is a phrasal verb with a literal and figurative interpretation. The literal meaning refers to spreading butter, while the figurative meaning refers to flattery.

By solving this clue correctly, crossword enthusiasts can improve their vocabulary and linguistic skills. Crossword puzzles challenge their analytical abilities and provide entertainment for puzzle solvers of all levels.

Definition of "FLATTER"

lavish praise and compliments on (someone), often insincerely and with the aim of furthering one's own interests

Example :

she was flattering him in order to avoid doing what he wanted

I was very flattered to be given the commission

she felt flattered that he was confiding in her

 The Crossword clue "Butter up" published 43 time/s & has 8 answer/s. 

Crossword	Date	Answer
Mirror classic	25 February 2024	FLATTER
Wall Street Journal	30 November 2023	ARIES
Crossword Champ Pro	12 November 2023	BASTE
Daily American	12 September 2023	BASTE
Crossword Champ Daily	27 May 2023	WOO
Metro Quick	2 March 2023	FLATTER
The Sun Two Speed	22 February 2022	FLATTER
The Times Concise	2 January 2022	FLATTER
Evening Standard - Easy	6 October 2020	FLATTER
Penny dell	13 August 2020	SOFTEN
Mirror quick	18 April 2020	FLATTER
Premier Sunday – King Feature Syndicate	10 February 2013	BASTE
Thinks.com	12 May 2010	BASTE
USA Today	16 March 2009	BASTE
New York Times	3 January 2007	BASTE
L.A. Times Daily	4 August 2006	SOFTSOAP