The English Oracle

Does "flattered" have a negative meaning in this context?

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Track title: Melt

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Chapters
00:00 Does &Quot;Flattered&Quot; Have A Negative Meaning In This Context?
00:21 Answer 1 Score 7
00:42 Accepted Answer Score 3
01:24 Thank you

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Full question
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Tags
#adjectives #formality #politeness

#avk47



ANSWER 1

Score 7


No, it does not have negative connotations when used this way; you may use it. I've used it myself. However, it does not signify that the customer's action was unexpected. It expresses modesty (as in I don't deserve this kindness).

As to what else you can say, don't forget Thank you!




ACCEPTED ANSWER

Score 3


I would say that 'flattered' is not quite the correct word to use in this instance. One is usually flattered by receiving a compliment or praise, often lavish in nature. Imagine your customer had said something like:

Wow, Bill, that presentation you gave today was the best I've ever seen!

This would be considered flattery and you may be flattered as a result. That your customer asked you to stay for dinner is generous indeed, but I wouldn't say it amounted to flattery, unless of a most indirect nature.

But to answer your question, I would suggest a more appropriate response may have been "I am grateful" rather than "I am flattered". Additional comments you could make would be along the lines of:

Thank you, I appreciate your kind offer.

Mmmm, lovely meatloaf.

And so on.