cozy up to
B2 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words
To try to become friendly with someone important because you want something from them.
Literal meaning: To physically get cosy next to someone — the idiomatic sense extends this to social maneuvering.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To deliberately become close to or friendly with someone, usually for personal gain or advantage.
"The lobbyists were accused of cozying up to senior politicians in exchange for favourable policies."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 informal
To physically move closer to someone in a warm, affectionate way.
"The puppy cozied up to the child and fell asleep in her lap."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often carries a negative or suspicious tone, implying the closeness is strategic rather than genuine. Common in political commentary.
Commonly used with
politician boss leader government investor power
Forms
Base
cozy up to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
cozies up to
he/she/it
Past simple
cozied up to
yesterday
Past participle
cozied up to
have + pp
-ing form
cozying up to
continuous
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