Words / B1

KOMPL-im-uh-nt/ˈkɒmplɪmənt/

A compliment is a polite remark of praise. Complement (already in the dictionary at higher levels in some lists) means something that goes well with something else — the classic spelling mix-up. Verb: compliment someone on. Notes: a compliment is not a diagnosis.

Meaning

A polite remark that shows praise (not complement).

Examples

• “A compliment in the notes is not a diagnosis.”
• “Compliment her on the presentation; complement the team with a statistician, if you mean “add what is missing”.”

Good to know

a compliment; compliment someone on. Mix-up: complement (complete / go with). Workplace / thank-you cards. Countable remarks.

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