Suck up

usgb
verb

To behave very nicely to someone, often a person in authority, in order to gain personal benefit or advantage.

He's always trying to suck up to the boss to get a promotion.
Visual representation of "suck up" - To behave very nicely to someone, often a person in authority, in order to gain personal benefit or advantage.

Often appears as...

  • suck up to someone
  • suck up to the boss

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "suck up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Connotation

Using 'suck up' can imply a person is being insincere or manipulative for personal gain.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Everyone knows she's sucking up to the teacher, even though she doesn't like him.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Speech

'Suck up' is used in casual or informal conversations rather than formal settings.

Illustration for Informal Speech
I can't stand how he always sucks up to our coach.
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Perceived Negatively

When someone is labeled a 'suck up', they're often viewed unfavorably by peers.

Illustration for Perceived Negatively
The other interns don't like him because he's a blatant suck up.
Visual representation of the word "Suck up"

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