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Compliment vs. Complement: What's the Difference?
Quick answer
- A compliment is a kind remark, praise.
- A complement is something that completes or improves another thing.
The difference
They sound identical, so only spelling separates them. Compliment is about words of praise; complement is about a good fit, two things that work better together.
Compliment
- Usually
- noun or verb
- Think
- praise
- Meaning
- An expression of praise or admiration.
- Example
- She complimented his presentation.
Complement
- Usually
- noun or verb
- Think
- complete
- Meaning
- Something that completes or goes well with another thing.
- Example
- The sauce complements the fish.
When to use compliment
Use compliment whenever kind words are being given or received.
- That's the best compliment I've had all year.
- He complimented her on the redesign.
When to use complement
Use complement when two things fit together, or for a full set (a full complement of staff).
- Her calm style complements his intensity.
- The team is back to a full complement after the holidays.
Remember it
ComplIment = I like it. ComplEment = it completes.
The e in complement matches the e in complete.
Common mix-up
Incorrect: The wine compliments the meal.
Correct: The wine complements the meal.
The wine completes the meal; it does not praise it.
Incorrect: Thanks for the complement.
Correct: Thanks for the compliment.
Kind words are a compliment.
The difference in real life
Complimentary
Complimentary has two everyday senses: praising (“complimentary review”) and free of charge (“complimentary breakfast”). Complementary always means fitting together.
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