compliment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "compliment" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a polite expression of praise or admiration towards someone or something. Example: "She received a compliment on her presentation skills from her colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Books

TV & Radio

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Best I've seen since Roger Byrne," reckoned the Joy of Six's dad's Uncle Mick - not much of an accolade on the face of it, given a period of only ten years, but the comparison was intended as the highest compliment.

The Guardian - Sport

Its more impressive beneficiaries – currently the Poet Laureate, Dame Carol Ann Duffy, and Dame Marina Warner – return the compliment, by lending reputational lustre to official partiality and caprice.

The Guardian - Opinion

One of the parents paid me a really high compliment the other day.

The Guardian - Tech

In the winter months the mulligatawny soup – a spicy variation on lentil soup cooked in south Indian style – is a perfect compliment to onion bhaji or gobi pakora (cauliflower fried in chick-pea flour).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The greatest compliment to English is that it proved to be just too damned attractive for this idea to be maintained, even by those who had good reason to hate England.

The Guardian - Opinion

The truth is, whether at home or abroad, most young women will experience sexual harassment at some point, even if it's only a dirty "compliment" shouted at them in the street.

The Guardian

"It is unusual for us to only have two chances like that but we took them and it is a compliment to Brighton that they made us battle so hard.

The Guardian - Sport

It proposes one of the simple answers you'll come across anywhere, and I mean that as an absolute compliment.

The Guardian - Books

That's just about as high as a compliment can get.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This is the first compliment I've received from a sporting type since my Year 9 PE teacher told me that at least I'd made the effort, after I ran the wrong way down a rugby pitch and scored what turned out to be an own try.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I think he understood it," Boyle says, by way of a compliment.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "compliment" to highlight specific achievements or qualities rather than making general statements. For example, instead of saying "You're great", say "Your presentation was well-structured and informative".

Common error

Avoid misspelling "compliment" as "complement". "Compliment" is an expression of praise, while "complement" is something that completes or enhances something else. Pay attention to the context to choose the correct word.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "compliment" is either as a noun (an expression of praise) or a verb (to express praise). Examples from Ludwig show it used both ways, such as "The greatest "compliment" to English..." and "...return the "compliment", by lending reputational lustre..."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Sport

15%

Books

7%

Less common in

Lifestyle

6%

TV & Radio

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "compliment" is a versatile term widely used to express praise or admiration, functioning both as a noun and a verb. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, including news, sports, and literature. While generally appropriate, the register can vary from neutral to formal. Remember to differentiate "compliment" from "complement" to avoid common spelling errors. By using "compliment" effectively, you can enhance communication and build positive relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Praise

Focuses on the act of expressing approval or admiration.

Admiration

A feeling of respect and approval.

Acclaim

Denotes public and enthusiastic approval.

Commendation

Formal praise or approval.

Flattery

Involves excessive or insincere praise, often to gain favor.

Acknowledgement

Recognition of merit or achievement.

Positive feedback

Information that reinforces successful behavior or performance.

Tribute

An act, statement, or gift that is intended to show gratitude or respect.

Applause

Approval or praise expressed by clapping.

Encomium

A speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly.

FAQs

How can I use "compliment" in a sentence?

You can use "compliment" to express praise or admiration. For example, "She gave him a "compliment" on his new suit", or "I wanted to "compliment" you on your excellent work".

What are some alternatives to the word "compliment"?

Alternatives include "praise", "flattery", "admiration", and "acclaim". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "compliment" and "complement"?

"Compliment" is an expression of praise or admiration, while "complement" means something that completes or enhances something else. For example, "I paid her a "compliment"", versus "The wine "complements" the meal perfectly".

Is it ever inappropriate to give a "compliment"?

Yes, it can be inappropriate if the "compliment" is insincere, sexually suggestive, or makes someone feel uncomfortable. Always consider the context and the recipient's feelings.