complimentary items

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complimentary items" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to items that are provided free of charge, often as a courtesy or bonus. Example: "Guests at the hotel will receive complimentary items such as toiletries and snacks during their stay."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

They would be denied access to slot machines, table games, credit, complimentary items and other benefits.

The New York Times

The proposal has drawn the anger of the state hotel industry, which said it might lead to taking more than complimentary items.

The New York Times

She was in a new D'Agostino market that had sent out coupons for complimentary items when she heard this exchange between a distinguished looking older gentleman and a disinterested checker.

The New York Times

Onboard complimentary items include headphones, a rewards voucher booklet and a poncho.

Forbes

The Hyatt Has It program offers complimentary items such as Woolite, hairspray, deodorant, curling irons and straighteners to borrow.

Forbes

Complimentary items: Always make sure to stock up free hotel soap and shampoo samples or trial-sized essential toiletries in case you run out of them.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

He simply clicks "yes," and the complimentary item is added at the checkout.

Huffington Post

Bread here is not a complimentary item that automatically comes with your meal so be mindful.

HuffPost

The questionnaire was further developed by including complimentary additional items, and reworded or rephrased others to suit our study objectives.

BMC Public Health

UNICEF is also preparing to respond to immediate needs for complimentary food items for the estimated 4,200 displaced children aged 6-24 months in collective centres.

Unicef

After you have decided the set or sets of photographs you want to use, you can begin looking for complimentary themed items.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When offering "complimentary items", clearly state the terms and conditions to avoid misunderstandings. For example, specify if they are limited to certain customers or for a specific period.

Common error

Avoid assuming everyone understands what "complimentary items" include. Be specific, especially in multilingual contexts, as the term might not translate directly or have the same cultural connotations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complimentary items" typically functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'complimentary' modifies the noun 'items'. This indicates that the items are provided free of charge or as a courtesy. Ludwig shows examples across various contexts, confirming its function.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

21%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

17%

Academia

8%

Unknown

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complimentary items" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term to denote items given without charge. Ludwig shows that it appears frequently in contexts such as news, media, wikis, business and science. The meaning of the phrase is clear: it is used to communicate the availability of free goods, often as an incentive or a gesture of goodwill. Ludwig confirms that although alternatives exist, understanding the specific context ensures appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

free items

Emphasizes the absence of cost; a more direct and widely understood term.

courtesy items

Suggests the items are provided as a gesture of politeness or goodwill.

gratis items

A more formal synonym for free items.

no-cost items

Highlights that there are no associated expenses.

complimentary goods

Uses a more formal term for "items", suggesting a higher value.

freebies

Informal term indicating promotional or giveaway items.

giveaways

Focuses on the act of distributing items at no cost, often for marketing.

bonus items

Implies the items are an extra benefit or perk.

promotional items

Specifies that the items are intended for marketing or advertising purposes.

incentive items

Suggests that the items are offered to encourage a specific action or behavior.

FAQs

What does "complimentary items" mean?

The term "complimentary items" refers to products or services provided free of charge, often as a courtesy or added benefit. These are typically offered to enhance customer experience or as part of a promotional strategy.

What are some alternatives to saying "complimentary items"?

You can use alternatives such as "free items", "courtesy items", or "gratis items" depending on the context and level of formality.

How do businesses use "complimentary items" to attract customers?

Businesses use "complimentary items" as incentives or perks. These might include offering a "free sample", a "bonus item" with a purchase, or "free upgrade" to a service.

Is it appropriate to ask for more "complimentary items"?

While it is generally acceptable to inquire about available "complimentary items", repeatedly requesting them or expecting excessive amounts might be seen as impolite. It depends on the specific context and the policies of the establishment.