Meaning of the word "flattery, much like perfume, should be smelled but not swallowed" in English
What does "flattery, much like perfume, should be smelled but not swallowed" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
flattery, much like perfume, should be smelled but not swallowed
US /ˈflæt.ər.i, mʌtʃ laɪk pərˈfjuːm, ʃʊd bi smɛld bʌt nɑt ˈswɑl.oʊd/
UK /ˈflæt.ər.i, mʌtʃ laɪk ˈpɜː.fjuːm, ʃʊd bi smɛld bʌt nɒt ˈswɒl.əʊd/
Idiom
a proverb suggesting that while it is pleasant to receive praise, one should not take it too seriously or let it go to one's head
Example:
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He enjoyed the compliments on his speech, but he remembered that flattery, much like perfume, should be smelled but not swallowed.
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Don't let their praise make you arrogant; flattery, much like perfume, should be smelled but not swallowed.