compliment

The noun compliment — spelled c-o-m-p-l-i-m-e-n-t — means an expression of praise or admiration. The verb form means to praise or admire. Examples:

  • The professor paid the student many compliments on her term paper.
  • My compliments to the chef!
  • Please compliment your coworkers on a job well done.

The adjective complimentary — spelled c-o-m-p-l-i-m-e-n-t-a-r-y — means expressing of praise or approving. It can also mean given or supplied free of charge. Examples:

  • The professor is complimentary to their students.
  • Please be complimentary to your coworkers.
  • Airlines no longer offer complimentary snacks or beverages on short flights.
  • The restaurant offers complimentary mints after the meal.

Do not confuse with complement.

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