“Compliment” and “complement” are one letter apart and sound identical, but they describe very different things — one is praise, the other is completion.
The Short Answer
Compliment (with an I) means a nice remark or praise. Complement (with an E) means something that completes or goes well with something else.
Examples of “Compliment”
- She gave him a compliment on his presentation.
- Thank you for the kind compliment.
- He complimented her on her new haircut.
- Compliments will get you everywhere.
Examples of “Complement”
- The wine complements the meal perfectly.
- These two skills complement each other well.
- The scarf is a nice complement to the outfit.
- A full complement of staff was on duty.
A Simple Memory Trick
“Compliment” has an “I,” like “I like it” — a helpful reminder that a compliment expresses appreciation. “Complement” has an “E,” like “complete” — a reminder that it means something that completes or enhances another thing.
Where the Confusion Comes From
Both words come from the same Latin root, “complementum,” meaning “that which completes.” Over centuries, “compliment” split off to specifically mean flattering words — the idea being that a kind remark “completes” a positive interaction — while “complement” kept the broader, literal meaning of completion or addition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which spelling means “praise”?
A: “Compliment,” spelled with an “i,” refers to a flattering remark or expression of praise.
Which spelling is used for things that go well together?
A: “Complement,” spelled with an “e,” describes something that completes or enhances another thing.
Is “complimentary” related to “compliment” or “complement”?
A: It’s related to “compliment” when it means free (as in “complimentary drinks,” originally given as a courteous gesture), though it shares the same historical root as both words.
