What is the difference between Complement and Compliment?

b2-upper-intermediate

Complement

noun/verb

Definition

A thing that completes or brings to perfection.

Examples

The wine is a perfect [complement] to the meal.

The two colors [complement] each other well.

His skills [complement] hers.

Compliment

noun/verb

Definition

A polite expression of praise or admiration.

Examples

She gave me a nice [compliment].

He [compliment]ed her on her new dress.

It's a [compliment] to be asked to speak.

Tags

similar-spelling sound-similar same-pronunciation

Practice Quiz

Question 1: The sauce is a perfect ___ to the pasta.

complement compliment

Question 2: He received a nice ___ on his presentation.

complement compliment

Question 3: Which sentence is correct?

I must compliment the chef on this delicious meal. The two singers complement each other's voices. Your shoes really compliment your outfit. She paid me a lovely complement.

Question 4: Which word means 'to praise'?

complement compliment

Question 5: That color of shirt really ___ your eyes.

complements compliments

Question 6: She appreciated the ___ about her new haircut.

complement compliment

Question 7: Which sentence uses 'complement' correctly?

It was a great complement when she praised my work. This cheese is a fine complement to the wine. Allow me to complement you on your success. He's always fishing for complements.

Question 8: The artists' styles ___ each other perfectly.

complement compliment

Question 9: It is always nice to give someone a sincere ___.

complement compliment

Question 10: Which word means 'to complete or go well with'?

complement compliment

Quiz Answers

Q1: complement

Q2: compliment

Q3: The two singers complement each other's voices.

Q4: compliment

Q5: complements

Q6: compliment

Q7: This cheese is a fine complement to the wine.

Q8: complement

Q9: compliment

Q10: complement

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