there is also direct and indirect buttering. ;)
anyways coming back to the topic, I usually give credit to people, peers, subordinates or seniors if some topic comes up and they had contributed to it. It is generally appreciated.
I know the difference but I do not care anymore. I have learned my lessons. I praise direct , indirect , my seniors, my juniors , all and sundry. It has opened a whole new world of opportunities for me and made many things easy for me.
Previously I used to be dumbfounded if there was a need to praise my seniors . Coming from a desi background I used to think it a taboo. Not anymore.
Oh and yes I praise Allah too as much as I can , whenever I can.
depends upon intention
The person you are praising will never know your intentions. This answer is good in case of praising Allah , Allahs Knows your intentions but humans do not .