To obtain something through flattery is to?

To obtain something through flattery is best described by the term "wheedle." This word means to persuade someone to do something through persistent flattery or coaxing. It implies a gentle approach to influence someone into granting you a favor or agreement, often by using charm or sweet words to win their favor.

This concept fits particularly well with the notion of flattery as it inherently involves a level of insincerity; the one using flattery may not be expressing genuine admiration but rather seeks to manipulate the interaction to achieve a specific goal. The frequency of this use in interpersonal relations highlights the dynamics that can be at play when someone seeks to obtain something from another.

The other terms provided do not fully capture the essence of leveraging flattery specifically. While "coax" can imply persuading someone into action, it does not necessarily emphasize the flattery component. "Manipulate" carries a broader and often more negative connotation regarding control over someone’s actions, while "flatter" simply means to compliment someone without the nuanced implication of seeking to gain something in return. Therefore, "wheedle" is the most accurate choice in this context.