I Am Flattered | Meaning, Usage & Alternatives

The phrase “I am flattered” is commonly used when someone expresses appreciation for a compliment or positive remark directed at them. It typically means that the recipient acknowledges the nice thing that was said or done but may not necessarily share the same feelings as the person offering the compliment. In many cases, saying “I am flattered” is a polite way to decline romantic advances or other forms of personal admiration, without being too harsh or direct.

Examples of How to Use “I Am Flattered” in a Sentence

While understanding the meaning is important, seeing how it’s used in context can provide even more clarity. Below are 11 examples of how to use “I am flattered” in everyday conversations. Although it’s not always the most pleasant thing to hear, especially in the context of romantic feelings, these examples will help you grasp its proper usage:

• I am flattered that you think of me that way, but I’m afraid I don’t feel the same about you.
• I feel flattered that you’d open up to me like that.
• Stop it. You are flattering me, and I don’t like it.
• I’m flattered that you’d be so open with me, but we can’t keep doing this.
• I feel flattered you feel that way, but we work better as friends.
• I’m flattered that you asked, but haven’t you got better things to think about?
• You’re flattering me every time we talk. I don’t want to hurt your feelings, but I’m not interested.
• Look, I am flattered, but I’m not into you in that way.
• I am flattered that you’d come to me for help.
• Wow, you guys were talking about me? I feel flattered!
• I feel flattered that you thought I’d be the best choice!

Why People Use “I Am Flattered”

Though the meaning doesn’t always have to be negative, “I am flattered” is often used to signal that the recipient doesn’t reciprocate the same feelings. Whether someone has admitted romantic feelings or simply given a compliment, the phrase is a polite way to reject the gesture without causing unnecessary harm.

The phrase often includes a “but” conjunction, which is followed by a clause that softens the rejection. For example, “I am flattered, but I don’t feel the same way.” This structure allows someone to decline gracefully.

Is It More Common to Use “I Am Flattered” or “I Feel Flattered”?

Although flattered is a feeling, “I am flattered” is far more commonly used than “I feel flattered.” Similar to phrases like “I am happy” or “I am sad,” we tend to use the verb ‘to be’ to express feelings directly, instead of saying “I feel.”

By using “I am flattered,” you convey how you feel without needing to explicitly use the verb “feel”. The context makes the feeling clear, so there’s no need to complicate the sentence with extra words.

Is Being Flattered a Good Thing?

There are two ways to interpret someone saying “I am flattered.” On the one hand, it can be seen as a kind way to spare your feelings, especially if they are turning down a romantic gesture or declining some sort of admiration. Instead of being blunt, the speaker uses “I am flattered” to maintain politeness.

On the other hand, it can sometimes come across as arrogant. If someone twists your words or assumes you’re giving them admiration when you’re not, the phrase can make them seem full of themselves.

Ultimately, the use of “I am flattered” is often a gentle way of rejection. It leaves the conversation more open-ended than something like “I’m not interested,” which tends to end the discussion outright.

Is It Polite to Say “I Am Flattered”?

Yes, using “I am flattered” is generally considered polite, as it is designed to spare someone’s feelings. If someone has shared personal thoughts or confessed feelings, and you don’t reciprocate, this phrase can help soften the blow of rejection.

However, it’s important to note that some people might still feel hurt or upset after hearing “I am flattered.” Unfortunately, rejection can be difficult no matter how kindly it’s delivered. Still, most people will appreciate the thoughtfulness behind the phrase, as it helps to manage expectations while being polite.

What Does It Mean When a Girl Says the phrase?

When a girl says, “I am flattered,” it often implies that she likes you but only in a friendly way. If you’ve shared romantic feelings, the phrase is typically used to gently reject you without damaging the friendship.

However, this is not always the case. Sometimes a girl might say “I am flattered” and still be open to exploring the idea further. For example:

• “I am flattered that you think of me in that way.”

This response could mean that she is simply acknowledging the compliment and could be willing to continue the conversation about your feelings.

What Does It Mean When a Guy Says the phrase

When a guy says, “I am flattered,” it usually serves the same purpose as when a girl says it—to gently reject an advance or compliment. However, guys tend to use this phrase less frequently because many men find it more difficult to express their feelings.

That said, when a guy does say, “I am flattered,” it may indicate that he’s in touch with his emotions and is trying to be respectful. Just like with girls, the phrase doesn’t always mean rejection. For example:

• “I am flattered that you told me this.”

This could be a signal that the guy is appreciating the moment and might be willing to explore further conversation.

How to Respond to the phrase

Your response to “I am flattered” will depend on the situation. Let’s look at two possible scenarios and how to respond:

1. Rejection Scenario:
   • “I am flattered that you told me this, but I don’t feel the same.”
   • In this case, it’s best to acknowledge the rejection gracefully. You might say something like, “I appreciate your honesty,” and move on.
2. Open-Ended Scenario:
   • “I am flattered that you’d open up to me about this!”
   • Here, you can keep the conversation going by thanking them for being there for you and potentially steering the conversation toward understanding their own feelings.

Synonyms for the phrase

If you want to use alternatives to “I am flattered,” consider the following phrases that convey a similar meaning:

• I am honored
• I am so pleased
• I am overjoyed
• I am delighted

These phrases can help you express gratitude or appreciation without using “I am flattered” every time.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says, the phrase? 

When someone says, “I am flattered,” they are acknowledging a compliment or kind gesture with gratitude. However, it often implies that they may not reciprocate the same level of feelings, especially in romantic situations. The phrase is used to soften a rejection, making it more polite. It can also express genuine appreciation, depending on the context, but the speaker is likely trying to avoid hurting the other person’s feelings directly.

Is the phrase always a rejection? 

While “I am flattered” is frequently used in the context of rejection, it’s not always the case. Sometimes, it can simply be a way to show appreciation for a compliment or a kind action without dismissing the person. The tone, context, and the sentence following the phrase often reveal more about whether it’s a rejection or just an acknowledgment of admiration. However, in romantic scenarios, it’s typically a gentle way to decline further advances.

How should I respond when someone says, the phrase? 

Your response will depend on the context of the conversation. If you sense that it’s a polite rejection, it’s best to respond with understanding and acceptance. For example, you could say, “Thank you for being honest,” or “I appreciate your response.” If the comment is more open-ended, such as in response to a compliment, you might say something like, “I’m glad you feel that way” or “I appreciate you hearing me out.” Being gracious is key.

Is it polite to say, the phrase? 

Yes, saying “I am flattered” is considered a polite and respectful way to acknowledge someone’s feelings or compliments, especially when you’re not able to reciprocate the sentiment. It avoids harsh rejections like “I’m not interested” and instead softens the blow. Most people appreciate this gentler approach to declining, though it still conveys the message that their feelings might not be shared. It’s a useful phrase in both casual and formal conversations.

Can the phrase be taken as arrogance? 

Although “I am flattered” is intended to be polite, in certain situations, it can be perceived as arrogant or self-important. If the person being “flattered” seems to interpret every compliment as romantic interest or admiration, it could come across as presumptuous. However, in most cases, it’s used thoughtfully to maintain courtesy and avoid embarrassment or awkwardness in a conversation. It’s important to use the phrase with humility and genuine appreciation to avoid any negative perception.

What are some alternatives to the phrase? 

If you’re looking for other ways to express appreciation, consider using phrases like “I am honored,” “I am so pleased,” or “I am delighted.” These alternatives carry a similar sentiment of acknowledging someone’s compliment or kind gesture. However, they may be less commonly associated with the polite rejection that “I am flattered” often implies. Using different expressions can add variety to your conversations while still showing appreciation.

Conclusion

In summary, “I am flattered” is a versatile phrase that can express both appreciation and polite rejection. Its use depends largely on the context, with its most common application being a gentle way to turn down romantic advances. Whether you’re the one saying it or the one hearing it, understanding its nuances can help foster clearer, more respectful communication. By using it with sincerity, you can maintain goodwill in conversations, even in difficult situations. As the saying goes, “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others” – and being flattered is often the first step in expressing that gratitude.