ENGLISH
REFERENCE

chat up

idiom
Meaning

To talk to (someone) in a friendly, open, or casual manner, sometimes also in a charming or affected manner, usually to curry favor, and sometimes flirtatiously with the intention of establishing a romantic or sexual encounter or relationship with that person.


Examples
SIMPLE

He tried to chat her up at the bar.

CONTEXTUAL

The waiter spent too much time chatting up the customers instead of bringing our food.

COMPLEX

The politician moved through the room with practiced ease, chatting up potential donors to secure their support for the upcoming campaign.

Anchors to
Related idioms3entries
  1. 01

    F in the chat

    condolences, regret, or sympathy.

  2. 02

    flat chat

    At maximum capability, intensity, or speed.

  3. 03

    L in the chat

    A loss, failure, or unfortunate event.

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