Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

author Mirabella Luu calendar 2020-12-14 07:12

Meaning of Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery proverb

If a person imitates what you do, it means that person loves or admires you a lot.

Nancy always copies what I wear, but I don't mind. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, anyway.

Don't copy other people's assignments and say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, do it yourself.

Other phrases about:

put sb on a pedestal

Believe that someone is a perfect person with no faults

worship the ground someone walks on

To show absolute respect, admiration or love to someone

fall on (one's) knees

To go down on one or both of one's knees in order to express respect, awe, penitence, subjection or reverence

strike (one's) fancy

If you like something very much or find something appealing or interesting to you, it strikes your fancy.

what's your poison

What do you want to drink? 

Origin of Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery

 

Grosz, Christopher, 1947-:"Imitation ... | Items | National Library of New  Zealand | National Library of New Zealand
Charles Caleb Colton was the first to use it in print in his Lacon: or, Many things in few words, 1820
(Image Source:natlib.govt.nz)

The proverb has been around for several centuries but it was not commonly used until the 19th century. Charles Caleb Colton was the first to use it in print. It appeared in his Lacon: or, Many things in few words, published in 1820:

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

Many authors used variations of the expression as early as the 18th century. However, Colton’s variation is the one English speakers still use today.

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run against the grain

To do something in an unusual way

Example:

I guess I like to run against the grain in everything I do.

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