* Informal and Casual: "Schmooze" is generally considered informal and casual. It's often used to describe lighthearted, social conversations, often with the intention of networking or building relationships.
* Potential for Superficiality: The act of schmoozing can sometimes be perceived as superficial, focusing more on making connections and building rapport than on genuine substance or intellectual exchange. This is where the negative connotation comes in.
* Context is Key: Whether "schmooze" has a negative connotation depends heavily on the context.
* If someone says they're "going to schmooze with some clients," it might sound like they're just trying to make a good impression, even if the conversation is genuine.
* If someone is "schmoozing with someone they barely know," it can seem insincere or even manipulative.
In summary:
* "Schmooze" is not inherently bad, but it can have negative connotations when used to describe insincere or manipulative interactions.
* The word is often used in a neutral or even positive way to describe casual, social interactions, especially in professional settings.
Ultimately, the connotation of "schmooze" depends on the speaker, the listener, and the specific context.