🔑 Key Difference

• Compliment: Refers to a polite expression of praise or admiration.
• Complement: Refers to something that completes or goes well with something else.

1. “Compliment”

• Definition: A kind or flattering remark about someone or something. It can be a way to express admiration or appreciation.
• Usage: Often used to make someone feel good about their actions, appearance, or qualities.
• Examples:
  • “She received a compliment on her dress.”
  • “He always knows how to give a great compliment.”

Pro Tip: When you think of “compliment,” think of “praise” or “flattery.”

2. “Complement”

• Definition: Something that enhances, completes, or improves another thing, making it whole or better.
• Usage: Used to indicate that two things work well together.
• Examples:
  • “The red wine complements the steak perfectly.”
  • “Her skills complement his experience.”

Pro Tip: When you think of “complement,” remember “complete” or “match.”

🎭 Analogy

Think of “compliment” like a pat on the back (giving praise) and “complement” like fitting puzzle pieces that match and enhance each other.

🔄 Quick Comparison Table

📝 Practice Time!

Fill in the blanks with “compliment” or “complement”:

1. Her scarf is a great ________ to her outfit.
2. He blushed when he received a ________ about his work.
3. The dessert ________ the meal perfectly.
4. She always knows how to ________ her friends with kind words.

✅ Answers:

1. Complement
2. Compliment
3. Complement
4. Compliment