What term describes flattery or wheedling intended to coax?

Blandishment refers specifically to the flattering or persuasive speech or actions that are intended to coax someone into doing something. This term implies a sense of smoothness or insincerity in the approach, often suggesting that the flatterer is trying to gain favor or influence the other person's decisions through sweet-talk or enticing language. In this context, blandishment is not just any compliment or flattery; it encompasses a strategic use of charm or ingratiation meant to achieve a particular outcome.

While compliment, flattery, and adulation are related concepts, they do not carry the same specific connotation of manipulation implied by blandishment. Compliment is a straightforward expression of praise, flattery can often be more general and may not necessarily involve coaxing, and adulation typically implies excessive praise, which may not be aimed at persuasion. Therefore, blandishment uniquely captures the essence of insincere praise with an ulterior motive.