What do we call a person who is trying to impress somebody (not necessarily to gain any advantage). For example, he buys them expensive products, always talking in a sweet manner etc.
To describe an act of such a person, I want to say the following sentence.
Well, I think he is just being ____________.
Is "Pretentious" a suitable word to fill in the blank in above sentence? What are other choices of word?
Flashy /jazzy or gimmicky, ___ an outward show to impress.
As an adjective you might want to consider 'ostentatious':
- characterized by or given to pretentious or conspicuous show in an attempt to impress others
- (of actions, manner, qualities exhibited, etc.) intended to attract notice
A more well-known alternative is 'pompous', but it doesn't necessarily mean someone is attempting to impress others, and could just mean someone is "full of themselves".
As a noun you could opt for 'boaster':
a person who boasts or brags.
Synonyms include 'blowhard' or 'windbag'.
As suggested in the comments by Lambie, the word 'sycophant' comes very close, as well:
a self-seeking, servile flatterer; fawning parasite.
Note, though, how this is used explicitly for the kind of flattering done to gain an advantage.
Finally, the term 'braggadocio'—which sounds boastful in and of itself—refers to the action of the braggart:
empty boasting; bragging.
Partly depends on the motive for the behaviour
Insincere Ingratiating - implies he wants advantage
Deferential - implies he sees himself as inferior, like a servant
Disarming - more neutral in tone
Beguiling, captivating, charming - positive in tone.
Pretentious has a meaning of trying to be socially or intellectually superior.
a brown-noser, a kiss-ass or an ass-kisser, a butt-kisser, a suck-up
Perhaps affectation is what you're looking for?
noun: speech or conduct not natural to oneself : an unnatural form of behavior meant especially to impress others
A flatterer is someone who praises another without being sincere. The purpose is to benefit the flatterer.
