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."
inseparable
cozy up to
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To try to get close to someone, often in a flattering or self-serving way, or to become politically or socially aligned with someone.
In plain English
To try to become friendly with someone important because you want something from them.
What does "cozy up to" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To physically get cosy next to someone — the idiomatic sense extends this to social maneuvering.
Actually means
To try to become friendly with someone important because you want something from them.
Usage tip
Often carries a negative or suspicious tone, implying the closeness is strategic rather than genuine. Common in political commentary.
Words that pair with "cozy up to"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
politician boss leader government investor power
How to conjugate "cozy up to"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "cozy up to" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "cozy up to" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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