C2adverbformalrelationshipswork
US/ɪnˈɡreɪ.ʃi.eɪ.tɪŋ.li/
UK/ɪnˈɡreɪ.ʃi.eɪ.tɪŋ.li/
in a way that tries too hard to make someone like you or approve of you
In context
The new employee smiled ingratiatingly at the manager all week.
He laughed ingratiatingly at every joke the director made.
"What a brilliant idea, sir," she said ingratiatingly.
Words that go with ingratiatingly
verb + adverb
- smile ingratiatinglyThe salesman smiled ingratiatingly and offered us coffee.
- say ingratiatingly"You look wonderful today," he said ingratiatingly.
- grin ingratiatinglyThe boy grinned ingratiatingly at his teacher.
- ask ingratiatingly"Can I carry your bag for you?" he asked ingratiatingly.
- add ingratiatingly"Of course, your plan is much better," she added ingratiatingly.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He smiled ingratiating at me.Correct: He smiled ingratiatingly at me.