complimented

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'complimented' is correct and it can be used in written English.
You can use the word 'complimented' to express that someone has given praise or approval to someone else. For example: My parents complimented me on my excellent grade in my math test.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When complimented on his commitment to this rural community a smile again dances across his face.

The Guardian

Serving this vast selection since before vast selections were cool, Eulogy's beers are complimented by excellent pub food, including delicious Belgian-style fries and a big steaming pot of mussels – not to be missed.

The Guardian - Travel

In Jenner's case, there's little doubt that she desires to be complimented for her attractiveness, and it's hard to fault people for giving her that.

The Guardian - Opinion

The client was happy and complimented us on having dissected the market and delivered a comprehensive model for them to work with in just four weeks.

The Economist

Buy from Amazon.co.ukA READER once complimented William Golding on his book, "The Lord of the Rings"—a cruel twist for a man who is famous for just one book.

The Economist

Yet when asked about his ambitions, he reflexively complimented the man sitting next to him: he said he'd like to win the Masters twice, like Bubba Watson (left), last year's winner, who was about to present him with the champion's green jacket.During his acceptance speech, like most winners, he thanked his family, his caddie and the members of the Augusta National golf club.

The Economist

When this British interviewer complimented Mr Gore on his tea-handling skills, the vice-president did not miss a beat.

The Economist

The narrator, when complimented on his story by his listener, Walter Cowley, a young lichen specialist, replies: "Please, not the word 'interesting'interesting

The Economist

But at one point John McCain coyly complimented his physique.

The Economist

Last year it added a "thanks" feature, so editors can be complimented for their work, rather than just harangued for errors on message boards.

The Economist

This week Mr Druon complimented Mrs Alliot-Marie's wisdom and rounded on Olivier Schrameck, who as cabinet director of the former prime minister, Lionel Jospin, had "confounded sex and gender" and had "given himself the right, for the first time in History, to modify the language by government intervention".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complimented", ensure the object of the compliment is clearly stated. For example, "She complimented him on his insightful presentation" provides a clearer understanding than "She complimented him."

Common error

Avoid using incorrect prepositions after "complimented". While it's common to say "complimented on," avoid phrases like "complimented for" when describing the specific attribute being praised.

Linguistic Context

Complimented functions as the past tense and past participle of the verb "compliment". It indicates that someone has expressed praise or admiration. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts, affirming its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complimented" is the past tense of the verb "compliment", used to express that someone has received praise or admiration. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous real-world examples across various sources, including News & Media and Encyclopedias. While versatile, pay attention to preposition usage and context to ensure clarity. Consider using alternatives like "praised" or "commended" to add nuance. Overall, "complimented" is a common and widely accepted term in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Praised

Focuses on expressing admiration or approval, often publicly or formally.

Commended

Implies formal or official approval and recognition for achievements.

Applauded

Suggests enthusiastic approval, often expressed through clapping or similar gestures.

Congratulated

Specifically denotes offering good wishes and praise for an accomplishment or success.

Extolled

Emphasizes praising highly or enthusiastically.

Lauded

Implies public and enthusiastic praise.

Expressed admiration for

A more descriptive phrase that highlights the feeling of admiration.

Paid tribute to

Suggests honoring someone with praise and respect.

Gave accolades to

Indicates bestowing awards or honors along with praise.

Showed appreciation for

Focuses on expressing gratitude and acknowledgement of someone's efforts or qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "complimented" in a sentence?

You can use "complimented" to show someone received praise. For example, "The teacher "complimented" the student on their excellent essay."

What is a good alternative to "complimented"?

Alternatives include "praised", "commended", or "applauded", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "complimented for" instead of "complimented on"?

While "complimented on" is the standard and more widely accepted usage, "complimented for" can be used, but it's less common and might sound awkward to some. It's generally safer to stick with "complimented on."

What's the difference between "complimented" and "congratulated"?

"Complimented" generally refers to expressing admiration or praise for a specific attribute or action. "Congratulated" refers to expressing pleasure at someone's success or good fortune. For example, you "complimented" someone on their outfit, but you "congratulated" them on their graduation.