A 'complement' is something that completes something else in some way. A 'compliment' is a courteous remark that expresses admiration.

Jun 27, 2023 · Let’s clear up the complement vs. compliment confusion once and for all. Complement refers to something that makes something else perfect or complete, such as tomato sauce complements plain spaghetti. Compliment refers to saying something nice or praising, such as you look nice this evening.

Mar 4, 2019 · Compliment and complement are commonly confused terms because they’re pronounced alike and originally shared some meanings. But over time, they’ve become separate words with entirely different definitions. What does complement mean? Complement with an E is the older of the two terms. Its noun sense has been around in English since the 1300s.

Compliment can function as both a noun and a verb. When used as a noun, a compliment is a flattering or praising remark. Your friend gave me a nice compliment yesterday. (Noun) The remarks you gave are a tremendous compliment. (Noun) Just a month ago, Apple paid Microsoft a high compliment by seeming to have copied the device with its new iPad Pro.

Aug 8, 2022 · Compliment and complement are pronounced the same, but they have different meanings. Compliment (with an “i”) can be used as a noun to refer to admiration or praise. As a verb, it refers to the act of praising.

“Compliment” and “complement” are homophones—words with the same pronunciation but different definitions. As a noun, compliment means “a polite expression of esteem, admiration, or affection.” Send my compliments to the chef. Dinner was great. When used as a verb, compliment means “to express praise, respect, or affection.”

To complement is to complete something, supplement it, enhance it, or bring it to perfection. For example, your shoes may complement your dress, you and your spouse may complement each other, or minced garlic may complement a pasta dish. To compliment is to give praise.

Jan 29, 2025 · Understanding the difference between compliment and complement is key to using these words correctly. A compliment is all about giving praise or admiration, while a complement refers to something that enhances or completes something else.

This lesson explains the difference between COMPLIMENT and COMPLEMENT: illustrations, definitions, examples, tips, practice story, final quiz, and answers. Compliment and complement are two very similar words in the English language.

Compliment or Complement: If someone passes you a good remark about your behavior, he is complimenting you (verbform). The teacher complimented Emma for her respectable behavior in class.