brownie point - Definition & Meaning

approval of a person in authority that a person tries to gain by doing something that pleases or impresses themapproval of a person in authority that a person tries to gain by doing something that pleases or impresses them

The origin of the idiom "brownie point" can be traced to the mythical creatures known as "brownies" in folklore. Brownies were believed to be household spirits or fairies, often associated with helpful and benevolent actions, such as completing chores or tasks around the home while the occupants slept. The concept of earning "brownie points" likely emerged from the idea that by performing good deeds or being helpful, one could accumulate a form of goodwill or favor from these imaginary beings. It is often used humorously or playfully to acknowledge someone's efforts to please or impress others, especially when there's a sense that these efforts are motivated by the desire for recognition or benefits.The origin of the idiom "brownie point" can be traced to the mythical creatures known as "brownies" in folklore. Brownies were believed to be household spirits or fairies, often associated with helpful and benevolent actions, such as completing chores or tasks around the home while the occupants slept. The concept of earning "brownie points" likely emerged from the idea that by performing good deeds or being helpful, one could accumulate a form of goodwill or favor from these imaginary beings. It is often used humorously or playfully to acknowledge someone's efforts to please or impress others, especially when there's a sense that these efforts are motivated by the desire for recognition or benefits.

例句

She scored brownie points with her in-laws by baking them their favorite cookies for their visit.
她通过为公婆烤制他们最喜欢的饼干来拜访他们，从而获得了好感分。
Offering to do the dishes after the family dinner earned him some brownie points with his parents.
在家庭晚餐后主动提出洗碗为他赢得了一些好感分与他的父母。
The employee hoped that volunteering for the charity event would earn him brownie points with his boss.
员工希望为慈善活动做志愿者能让他从老板那里获得好感分。