The idiom "angle for" means to try to get something indirectly or to hint at something you want without directly asking for it. It comes from the idea of fishing, where you cast a line at an angle to try to catch a fish.
For example, if someone is "angling for a compliment," they are trying to get someone to say something nice about them without directly asking for it. Or if someone is "angling for a raise," they might hint at their accomplishments and hard work in hopes that their boss will offer them more money.
You can use this idiom in a variety of situations where you want something but don't want to come right out and ask for it. It's important to be aware of the context and tone of the conversation so that you don't come across as pushy or manipulative.
• She was accused of angling for personal gain by making a large donation to the charity.
• The salesman was angling for a sale by highlighting the product's unique features.
• He's been angling for a promotion for months now, but hasn't received one yet.
• The journalist was accused of angling for a scoop by using unethical methods to obtain information.
• She was angling for a compliment when she asked if her dress looked nice.
• The politician was clearly angling for a favorable news story with his carefully crafted speech.