Blandishment

A blandishment is a flattering or complimentary remark or action used to coax or persuade someone to do something. It often involves insincere praise or promises designed to win favor or gain advantage. The term implies a subtle, manipulative, and sometimes deceptive approach, aiming to soften a person's resistance or appeal to their vanity. It can involve charming words, alluring gestures, or generous offers, all employed to influence another's behavior or decisions. It's a tool of persuasion that trades on charm more than on logic or genuine merit, sometimes masking ulterior motives.

Blandishment meaning with examples

• The politician showered the voters with blandishments, promising tax cuts and improved services to secure their votes, despite having no real plan. He flattered and pandered to their desires.
• The con artist used a series of elaborate blandishments, including heartfelt compliments and gifts, to gain the trust of the elderly woman before convincing her to invest her life savings.
• The salesperson's repeated blandishments, praising the car's features and offering tempting financing options, were aimed at breaking down the customer's initial skepticism about the high price tag.
• Rejecting the king's blandishments, the knight remained steadfast in his loyalty to the rival kingdom, refusing to betray his honor or his country by accepting any bribe or promise.
• Despite his colleagues' blandishments, the professor refused to compromise his academic standards or ethical code, standing firm in his commitment to intellectual integrity and research.