The words complement and compliment are frequently interchanged and used in the same sentence. In this article, we will discuss compliment Vs complement, which helps you in understanding what is their basic difference. They are two completely separate terms with different meanings, even though they may sound similar and have some definitions that match. A pleasant comment or statement of respect or praise is known as a compliment. It’s something you say to someone to cheer them up and to express your gratitude for them. An example of praise might be saying to a buddy, “You look fantastic today.”
On the other hand, a complement is anything that completes or pairs nicely with another object. It is commonly used to refer to a set of components that come together to form an ideal whole. For instance, a blue shirt and a pair of blue jeans would complement one another well if you were wearing both. Understanding how the two terms vary can help you use them appropriately and in the appropriate situations. While complement is the term used to describe a piece that completes something else, complement is the phrase used to express respect and gratitude. Even though the terms compliment and complement may seem alike and have certain definitions, they are two quite separate words with different meanings.
Definition of Compliment:
An act of appreciation, respect, or approval is expressed through a compliment. It is often a nice statement, either verbally or in writing, that highlights or expresses another person’s good characteristics or achievements. One can also give himself compliments. Oftentimes, the purpose of a compliment is to uplift the person who is receiving it. Compliments are excellent interpersonal and organizational skills that can be used in both ways personally and professionally
Here are some examples of compliments:
- “You look fantastic in that dress!”
- “Your efforts in this assignment are exemplary for a student.”
- “You’re an amazing friend.”
- “Your singing is beautiful.”
- “You’re so kind.”
· Where to Use a Compliment
Fake or excessive praise is called flattery; compliments aren’t like that. While flattery is often untrue and manipulative, compliments are pure and genuine. Gratitude is a powerful motivator. Gratitude for someone’s efforts, accomplishments, or abilities might inspire them to keep up their current practices or to pursue new ones.
Definition of Complement:
A word or phrase that is added to another word or phrase to complete or improve its meaning is referred to as a complement in grammar. An adverb, an object, a subject, a modifier, or another word can be a complement. The words that come after an auxiliary verb or verb phrase are sometimes referred to as complements.
In English, there are three main types of complements: direct objects, indirect objects, and object complements.
Direct Object: In the sentence when a noun or pronoun directly receives the action of the verb it becomes a direct object. The phrase “I ate pizza” is an example of a direct object, the direct object in this instance is “pizza.”
Indirect Object: when a word or pronoun that the verb affects it becomes an indirect object, such as in “I gave him a book,” is known as an indirect object.’ Him’ is the indirect object in this example.
Object complement: A word or adjective that comes after a verb and describes its object complement, as in “I made her pleased,” is known as an object complement. The word “happy” is the object complement in this instance.
How to be Sure of Compliment vs Complement in Your Sentences:
It might be difficult to recall the difference between the phrase “compliment” vs “compliment,” but with a few basic techniques, you can do it with ease. Understanding each word’s definition and use might be beneficial when starting. A compliment is a term that describes an expression of respect, approval, or praise. As an example, whenever you say “I appreciate your kind remarks,”. The verb form of compliment is “to compliment”, and means to express praise or admiration.
Contrastingly, a complement is a noun that refers to something that completes or perfects something else. For instance, you may say, “Your shoes match your clothing flawlessly, almost like they are meant to be together”. The word “meant to be together” denotes the complement or completion or perfection of something. Once you understand the meaning of each word, there are several ways to help you remember which is which. The easiest method is to keep in mind that the word “compliment” includes two “i’s, which can act as a reminder.
Example Sentences:
Here are some examples which help you to understand what is the different use of complement vs compliment in sentences.
- Compliment: “You look beautiful today!”
Complement: “That watch suits you.”
- Compliment: “That was an amazing presentation!”
Complement: “His humor is sarcastic.”
- Compliment: “You’re a hard worker.”
Complement: “Your dedication is so inspiring.”
- Compliment: ” The type of music you like is really unique.”
Complement: “Your choice of songs always sets the mood.”
- Compliment: “You’re a great listener.”
Complement: ” You know a lot about people..”
- We hope this article gave you a complete understanding of the difference between these two words. Now let’s do a quick brainstorming exercise to check out your understanding.
I took it as a ———– that they wanted me to be the lead speaker.
Edward ————- Eric on his new watch.
We wanted the artwork to serve as a ——— to the rest of the apartment.
Current advances in hardware development nicely ————- British software skills.
Ans key: (compliment, complimented, complement, complement)