compliment to

USAGE SUMMARY

"compliment to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe something or someone that serves as a compliment or praise to another person. Example: "The article in the newspaper was a compliment to the hard work and dedication of the volunteers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

So that is a compliment to me.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's a compliment to Eli and Gilbride.

The New York Times - Sports

That was the biggest compliment to me".

The New York Times

"That's the ultimate compliment to hear".

The New York Times - Sports

You see, it's a compliment to her".

The Guardian - Film

"It's such a compliment to the nurses.

The New York Times

Dr. Becker returns the compliment to his readers.

The New York Times

All their homes are a compliment to Connecticut.

The New York Times

"It was a compliment to me and served as motivation".

The New York Times - Sports

It is a compliment to everybody in the club.

Independent

"A big compliment to the team," Sneijder said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "compliment to" to highlight a positive attribute or contribution that enhances the subject being discussed. Ensure that the context clearly indicates the positive connection.

Common error

Avoid using "compliment to" when the intent is to describe something negatively related to the subject. The phrase should always denote enhancement or praise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "compliment to" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating that something serves as an enhancement or expression of admiration for something else. As Ludwig AI indicates, it denotes positive regard or contribution. The examples show it in diverse contexts, from personal qualities to institutional achievements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "compliment to" is a frequently used prepositional phrase expressing praise or enhancement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears across a wide range of contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. Its function is to highlight positive relationships, and while its register is generally neutral, it can adapt to both formal and informal settings. To ensure accurate usage, remember that "compliment to" should always denote a positive contribution or favorable reflection, distinct from "complement to", which signifies completion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

praise for

This alternative is a direct expression of approval or admiration.

tribute to

This phrase emphasizes respect and admiration, often in a formal context.

commendation for

Implies formal approval or official recognition.

accolade for

This alternative suggests formal recognition or award.

homage to

This phrase indicates deep respect and reverence, often for artistic or historical influence.

a testament to

Highlights the evidence or proof of someone's qualities or achievements.

acknowledgment of

Emphasizes recognition and appreciation.

a feather in the cap for

Suggests an achievement that brings honor or credit.

an endorsement of

Suggests formal support or approval.

an enhancement of

Focuses on how something improves or adds value to something else.

FAQs

How can I use "compliment to" in a sentence?

Use "compliment to" to describe something that enhances or praises something else. For example, "Her dedication is a "compliment to" her work ethic".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "compliment to"?

Alternatives include "tribute to", "praise for", or "acknowledgment of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "compliment to" and "complement to"?

"Compliment to" expresses praise or admiration, while "complement to" means something that completes or enhances something else. They are spelled differently and have distinct meanings.

Can "compliment to" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "compliment to" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. Its usage depends on the context and the intended meaning of praise or enhancement.