PhrasesHub

Brownie points

    Definitions

      • gain favor or approval
        Attempt to win someone's approval or gain an advantage by performing helpful or thoughtful actions

      • insincere or superficial efforts
        Pretend to make an effort or show interest in something in order to gain favor or a positive reputation, often with ulterior motives

    Examples of Brownie points

    • John's hard work at work deserves brownie points.

      In this example, ‘brownie points’ is used to convey the fact that John has earned something extra, apart from the expected results of his work. If we assume that the expected results of his work would be a certain number of points, then brownie points would be additional points, which might not be expected but are nonetheless rewarded. Therefore, John's exceptional work has earned him brownie points.

    • During the debate, Sarah made some excellent points, that earned her brownie points with the audience.

      In this example, ‘brownie points’ is used to convey the fact that Sarah has earned the audience's respect and admiration by making some great points. Brownie points here are not given by a specific person or authority but by the audience themselves, based on the impact and effectiveness of Sarah's arguments.

    • The new marketing strategy proposed by Tom not only got approved but also earned him brownie points with the management.

      In this example, ‘brownie points’ is used to describe the fact that Tom not only succeeded with his proposal but also earned recognition from the management for his efforts. It implies that Tom's approach was exceptional, and the management acknowledged it by rewarding him with brownie points.

    • Mary's innovative idea can earn her a lot of brownie points if it is successfully implemented.

      In this example, ‘brownie points’ is used in a hypothetical sense to convey that Mary's unique idea has the potential to earn her recognition and praise. It suggests that if her idea is executed successfully, she will receive recognition and appreciation, which could be in the form of brownie points.These examples illustrate the versatility of the ‘brownie points’ idiom, which can be used in different scenarios to convey the idea of extra recognition, respect or appreciation given as a reward for exceptional effort or performance.

    • The company's marketing strategy deserves extra brownie points for its innovative approach.

      Brownie points is used to indicate that the marketing strategy has received more than the expected or required level of appreciation or acknowledgment. In this case, the strategy's innovative approach has been recognized as exceptional and deserving of additional praise.

    • The employee's outstanding attitude and commitment to work has earned him brownie points with the management.

      Brownie points is used to convey that the employee's exemplary attitude and commitment to work have resulted in special recognition or rewards from the management. This acknowledgment goes beyond the regular expectations or requirements of the job.

    • The chef's culinary skills have garnered brownie points from the food critics.

      Brownie points is used here to indicate that the chef's culinary skills have received exceptional reviews and accolades from the food critics. This level of appreciation goes above and beyond the standard recognition that may be expected from such professionals.

    • The sports team's performance in the finals was spectacular, scoring brownie points for the team and its fans.

      Brownie points is used here to indicate that the sports team's performance in the finals was outstanding and surpassed the expected level of performance, earning praise and recognition for the team and its fans. This level of achievement goes beyond what would typically be expected or required of the team.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "brownie points" is often used in a figurative sense to describe efforts made to gain favor or approval from someone. It can also refer to insincere or superficial efforts made for the same purpose.

    In the first meaning, the intention is to gain favor or approval from someone. This could be in a personal or professional context, where an individual may perform helpful or thoughtful actions in order to win someone's approval. This could include doing a favor, showing interest in someone's hobbies or opinions, or going above and beyond in a task. The use of this idiom in this context implies that the person is trying to earn something through their actions, like points on a scoreboard.

    In the second meaning, the intention is more negative, as it refers to insincere or superficial efforts. In this context, the idiom suggests that the person is not genuinely interested in gaining approval or favor, but is instead using manipulative tactics for their own benefit. This could include pretending to be interested in someone or something, making exaggerated efforts to impress, or going through the motions without truly caring about the outcome. The use of this idiom in this context implies that the person's actions are not genuine or sincere, but rather a means to an end.

    Origin of "Brownie points"

    The origin of the idiom "brownie points" is believed to come from the concept of earning points or rewards in the Girl Scouts organization. In the early 20th century, the Girl Scouts had a system where girls could earn points, called "brownie points," for completing tasks and activities. These points could then be exchanged for rewards or recognition.

    Over time, the term "brownie points" became more commonly used in a figurative sense to describe efforts made to gain favor or approval. It is possible that the popularity of this term in everyday language may be due to the familiarity with the Girl Scouts organization and their point system.

    The idiom "brownie points" is often used in a lighthearted or humorous manner, but it can also carry negative connotations when used in the context of insincere efforts. It serves as a reminder to be genuine in our actions and not just perform for the sake of gaining favor or approval.