Translation guide
The English word "fawn" has two main meanings: a young deer, and a verb meaning to show excessive flattery or affection. This guide covers both.
Referring to a baby deer
The standard word for a fawn or young deer. Used in general contexts.
森で子鹿を見つけた。
I found a fawn in the forest.
Literally 'deer child', can refer to a fawn, but also used in patterns or as a term for a spotted pattern resembling a fawn's coat.
To flatter someone excessively or behave obsequiously
A common phrase meaning 'to flatter' or 'pay compliments', often with an implication of insincerity. Can be used in many contexts.
彼は上司にお世辞を言ってばかりいる。
He is always fawning over his boss.
へつらう and 媚びる both imply obsequious behavior, but 媚びる often carries a nuance of trying to charm or ingratiate oneself, while へつらう is more about flattery to gain favor. お世辞を言う is a lighter, more common expression for giving compliments, not necessarily as negative.
The English verb 'fawn' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Using 子鹿 (fawn as a young deer) as a verb would be nonsensical. Always choose a phrase based on the intended meaning of flattery or obsequiousness.
She is wearing a kimono with a fawn-spot pattern.
A verb meaning 'to fawn upon', 'to flatter', or 'to curry favor'. Slightly more formal and direct than お世辞を言う.
権力者にへつらう人は信用できない。
People who fawn over the powerful cannot be trusted.
Means 'to flatter', 'to fawn', or 'to be obsequious'. Often used in the phrase 媚びへつらう for emphasis.
彼女は媚びるような笑顔を見せた。
She gave a fawning smile.
Literally 'to take someone's mood', meaning to ingratiate oneself or suck up to someone. Common in everyday speech.
彼はいつも先生のご機嫌を取っている。
He is always fawning over the teacher.
A more formal or literary term meaning 'to flatter' or 'to fawn'. Often used in written language.
追従するだけの部下は役に立たない。
Subordinates who only fawn are useless.