恭维 gōngwéi to praise
to praise; to speak highly of; compliment; praise
How to remember 恭维: 恭 polite + 维 to preserve = to praise.
Characters
How it is used
- To flatter/compliment, often with a hint of empty or strategic praise - 别恭维我了 (bié gōngwéi wǒ le) stop buttering me up, 恭维话 (gōngwéihuà) flattering words.
- Leans more toward flattery than sincere 称赞 (chēngzàn, to praise); can carry a slightly ironic edge.
- Note reading wéi, not wéi's other tones; 维 here is toneful as gōngwéi.