Complement vs Compliment: What's the Difference?
Quick Answer
Complement (with an "e") means to complete or go well with something; compliment (with an "i") means to praise someone.
Definition of "complement"
Complement is both a noun and a verb. As a noun it refers to something that completes or enhances another thing (e.g., a wine that complements a meal). As a verb it means to complete or make perfect.
Etymology: complement comes from Latin complēmentum, from complēre “to fill up,” which helps you remember the idea of completing or filling out.
Definition of "compliment"
Compliment is usually a noun or a verb meaning an expression of praise, admiration, or respect (e.g., “She received many compliments on her presentation”). As a verb it means to praise someone.
Etymology: compliment arrived in English via French and Italian forms related to the Latin root complēre, but its meaning shifted over time from courtesy and ceremony to verbal praise.
Key Differences
| Word | Primary Meaning | Common Usage | Part of Speech |
|---|---|---|---|
| complement | To complete or enhance; something that completes | Used for pairs, matches, or things that improve each other (e.g., color, skills) | Noun & Verb |
| compliment | Expression of praise or admiration | Used to praise people, behavior, or work (e.g., "Nice job!", "You look great") | Noun & Verb |
Example Sentences
complement
- The blue scarf perfectly complements her dress.
- The new software module complements the existing system by adding reporting features.
- In grammar, a subject complement completes the meaning of a linking verb.
- The salty dip is a great complement to the sweet pretzels.
compliment
- He complimented her on how clearly she explained the plan.
- Getting a compliment from your boss can brighten your whole day.
- She blushed when her neighbor paid a compliment about her garden.
- As a courtesy, the hotel staff offered complimentary water—wait, that's a different word! (See tip below.)
Memory Trick
Use the letters as a short cheat: complement has an "e" like complEte — it completes something. Compliment has an "i" like "I praise you" — it's about someone saying something nice to someone else.
Another quick reminder: if something completes or pairs with something else, think "complemE nt." If someone is praising you, think "complIment" — I = individual praise.
Quick Quiz
- Choose the right word: "The red wine _______ the steak." (complements / compliments)
- Choose the right word: "She received many _______ on her haircut." (complements / compliments)
- Choose the right word: "Those shoes _______ the outfit nicely." (complement / compliment)
- Choose the right word: "Please accept my _______ for a job well done." (complement / compliment)
Answers: 1) complements, 2) compliments, 3) complement, 4) compliment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can "compliment" ever mean "complete"?
No. Today, "compliment" means praise or a polite remark. If you need the sense of completing or matching, use "complement."
Are there words that sound the same as these?
Yes, complement and compliment are homophones in many accents — they sound the same but mean different things. Context and spelling are what save you.
How do I choose between them when writing?
Read the sentence aloud and ask whether you mean "to complete" or "to praise." If you mean complete or enhance, use complement (remember the "e" for "completE"). If you mean praise, use compliment (remember "I praise you").