complimentary drink

USAGE SUMMARY

"complimentary drink" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to refer to a drink that is given away for free, often as a gesture of hospitality or appreciation. For example, "The hotel offered us a complimentary drink when we arrived."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

You will receive your complimentary drink voucher when you arrive.

Independent

Standard cruise: A complimentary drink is included with tickets booked with promo code TALLSHIP.

Independent

A complimentary drink is included with tickets booked with promo code TALLSHIP.

Independent

The passenger who earns a certain number of miles is rewarded with a complimentary drink.

The New York Times

Each cruise ticket includes transportation to/from the conference site, dinner and one complimentary drink ticket.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The $24.95 brunch starts with a complimentary drink and a selection of homemade quick breads.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Complimentary drinks and snacks are surely next for the chop.

Independent

(Note: Link corrected Jul 12). Complimentary drinks (beer and wine) and snacks will be provided.

Harvard University

With the theme "More reasons to stay," it promotes amenities like "more room, complimentary drinks" and "free breakfast".

The New York Times

This expertly planned journey includes first-class hotel and ship accommodations and an extensive meal plan with complimentary drinks onboard.

University of California, Berkeley

After a big greeting at the door and several rounds of complimentary drinks, the man, in a blue custom-made suit, continued down to West 16th Street.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "complimentary drink" when you want to emphasize the gesture of hospitality or appreciation associated with providing a free drink. For example, offering a "complimentary drink" to a customer who experienced a delay is a good way to improve customer satisfaction.

Common error

Avoid confusing "complimentary" (free of charge) with "complementary" (enhancing or completing something else). Always double-check your spelling to ensure you are conveying the intended meaning. For example, don't say "The appetizer was a complementary drink" when you mean it was free.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complimentary drink" functions as a noun phrase, where "complimentary" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "drink". Ludwig AI affirms its correctness. It commonly describes a drink given without charge.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

12%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complimentary drink" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a free beverage, often offered as a gesture of hospitality or part of a promotional deal. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's frequently used in news and media, as well as academic contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to avoid confusing it with "complementary". Alternatives like "free beverage" or "on-the-house drink" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. Remember, offering a "complimentary drink" can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and goodwill.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

free beverage

Focuses on the fact that the drink is free of charge.

gratis drink

Emphasizes the free aspect using a less common synonym.

no-charge drink

Highlights that there is no cost associated with the drink.

on-the-house drink

Implies the drink is provided as a courtesy by the establishment.

comped drink

A more informal term, implying the drink's cost has been waived.

freebie drink

Highlights the drink as an unexpected bonus or perk.

courtesy drink

Emphasizes the drink is offered as a polite gesture.

gifted drink

Indicates the drink is presented as a gift.

provided drink

Focuses on the act of supplying the drink without charge.

included drink

Highlights that the drink is part of a package or deal.

FAQs

How can I use "complimentary drink" in a sentence?

You can use "complimentary drink" to describe a free drink offered as a courtesy. For example, "The hotel offered a "complimentary drink" upon arrival" or "Each ticket includes one "complimentary drink" voucher".

What's a good alternative to "complimentary drink"?

Alternatives include "free beverage", "gratis drink", or "on-the-house drink", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "complementary drink" instead of "complimentary drink"?

No, "complementary drink" is incorrect when referring to a free drink. "Complementary" means enhancing or completing something, while "complimentary" means given free of charge. Therefore, use "complimentary drink" when referring to something that is free.

In what situations is it appropriate to offer a "complimentary drink"?

Offering a "complimentary drink" is appropriate in situations where you want to show goodwill, such as to compensate for a service issue, welcome a guest, or enhance a customer's experience. For example, a restaurant might offer a "complimentary drink" to customers waiting for a table.