Cupboard love

usgb
noun

Love or affection shown only to get something one wants.

My brother was showing me cupboard love because he wanted to borrow my car.
Visual representation of "cupboard love" - Love or affection shown only to get something one wants

Often appears as...

  • show cupboard love
  • give cupboard love

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "cupboard love"
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Underlying Motive

Cupboard love indicates a deceptive affection to gain favors or material goods.

Illustration for Underlying Motive
She lavished him with attention, but it was just cupboard love for his inheritance.
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Not Genuine

The affection is temporary and not from the heart; it disappears once the goal is reached.

Illustration for Not Genuine
He's so sweet to me when he needs a ride, a classic case of cupboard love.
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Common Usage

It's typically used for humorous or critical commentary on someone's conspicuously strategic affection.

Illustration for Common Usage
My cat only comes to me for cuddles when she hears the food tin, total cupboard love!
Visual representation of the word "Cupboard love"

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