The only way to win an argument

[Cloud]

"Any fool can criticize, condemn, and complain--and most fools do. But it takes character and self-control to be understanding and forgiving. That breeds sympathy, tolerance, and kindness."

Doesn't sound too smarmy to me.

[xoxoxoBruce]

Sympathy, tolerance, and kindness make you warm and fuzzy.
Fine, I prefer honesty and integrity.

[Hyoi]

Originally Posted by Cloud

"Any fool can criticize, condemn, and complain--and most fools do. But it takes character and self-control to be understanding and forgiving. That breeds sympathy, tolerance, and kindness."

Doesn't sound too smarmy to me.

smarmy

One entry found for smarmy. Main Entry: smarmy
Pronunciation: 'smär-mE
Function: adjective
Inflected Form(s): smarm·i·er; -est
Etymology: smarm to gush, slobber
1 : revealing or marked by a smug, ingratiating, or false earnestness <a tone of smarmy self-satisfaction -- New Yorker>
2 : of low sleazy taste or quality <smarmy eroticism>
- smarm·i·ly /-m&-lE/ adverb
- smarm·i·ness /-mE-n&s/ noun
From Merriam-Webster online.

I've seen this term used a number of times and I've wondered if those that use it with regularity know what it means. Furthermore, how does one go about objectively determining whether a comment or post is smug, ingratiating, or falsely earnest?