Samuel Johnson Flattery Quotations

Madam, before you flatter a man so grossly to his face, you should consider whether or not your flattery is worth his having.

To be flattered is grateful, even when we know that our praises are not believed by those who pronounce them; for they prove, at least, our power, and show that our favour is valued, since it is purchased by the meanness of falsehood.

No wonder, Sir, that he is vain; a man who is perpetually flattered in every mode that can be conceived. So many bellows have blown the fire, that one wonders he is not by this time become a cinder.

Patron: One who countenances, supports or protects. Commonly a wretch who supports with insolence, and is repaid in flattery.

He who praises everybody, praises nobody.

Just praise is only a debt, but flattery is a present.

He that is much flattered soon learns to flatter himself.