Many people confuse the words “complement” and “compliment” because they sound the same, but they have entirely different meanings.
Understanding the difference between complementing and complimenting is essential for clear communication. While “complementing” refers to completing or enhancing something, “complimenting” means expressing praise.
Knowing when to use each ensures your writing conveys the intended meaning, avoiding confusion and enhancing professionalism in both personal and business contexts.
While they are homophones (words that sound alike), their definitions and uses are distinct. Mixing them up can lead to confusion in writing and conversation.
This article will help you understand the difference between complementing and complimenting by exploring their definitions, examples, and tips to remember which is which.
What is “Complementing”?
“Complementing” comes from the word complement, which refers to something that completes or enhances another. When two things are complementary, they go well together, improving or bringing out the best in each other.
- Definition: To complete or make something better by adding to it.
- Usage: When something enhances or improves another thing.
Example of Complementing in Action
- Clothing and Accessories: “Hannah’s scarf is complementing her outfit perfectly.”
In this case, the scarf enhances or adds to the overall look of Hannah’s outfit. - Food Pairings: “The wine is complementing the flavors of the steak.” The wine is enhancing the taste of the steak, making the meal more enjoyable.
- Interior Design: “The soft lighting is complementing the room’s decor, creating a cozy atmosphere.” The lighting enhances the room’s design, making the overall setting more appealing.
Scenario Example for Complementing
- Hannah: “I love how these blue pillows are complementing the new couch!”
- Mia: “They definitely bring out the color of the fabric!”
What is “Complimenting”?
On the other hand, “complimenting” comes from the word compliment, which means to praise or express admiration for someone or something. Complimenting is about giving positive feedback or saying something nice.
- Definition: To give someone praise or a positive remark.
- Usage: When you express admiration or give a kind word to someone.
Example of Complimenting in Action
- Personal Praise: “Mia is always complimenting her coworkers on their hard work.”
In this sentence, Mia is giving her coworkers praise for their efforts. - Appearance Compliments: “I love your dress! It’s stunning.”
This is a compliment, as it expresses admiration for someone’s outfit. - Workplace Compliments: “Hannah’s boss complimented her on the excellent presentation.”
Here, Hannah receives praise for her performance at work.
Scenario Example for Complimenting
- Hannah: “Mia has been complimenting everyone at the party. She told me my hair looked great!”
- Mia: “Well, I meant it! You’re having a great hair day!”
How to Remember the Difference
It can be tricky to keep complementing and complimenting straight since they sound alike, but here’s an easy way to remember the difference:
- Complement: Think of the word “complete.” When something complements another, it completes or enhances it. For example, colors that go well together are said to complement each other.
- Compliment: Think of “praise” or a nice remark. When you give a compliment, you are giving someone a positive comment or admiration.
Table to Differentiate Between “Complementing” and “Complimenting”
| Word | Meaning | Key Associations | Example |
| Complementing | Completing, enhancing, making something better | Complete, enhance, improve | The red shoes are complementing her black dress.The wine complements the steak. |
| Complimenting | Giving praise or admiration | Praise, admiration, positive remark | Mia is complimenting Hannah on her presentation.He gave her a compliment on her hair. |
More Elaborated Tips on How to Remember
- Visualize the Context:
Imagine two puzzle pieces fitting together to form a complete picture. That’s how complementing works. Something that complements makes something else whole or better. - Compliments Are Verbal:
Think of complimenting as verbal interaction. You’re saying something nice. Anytime you’re expressing a kind or positive remark, you’re complimenting. - Complement with an “E” = Enhance:
The letter “E” in complementing can remind you of enhancing or improving something. - Compliment with an “I” = I’m Saying Something Nice:
The “I” in complimenting stands for I’m giving praise or making a kind statement.
Complementing vs. Complimenting in Everyday Life
Complementing in Daily Conversations
- Interior Design Example:
“These curtains really complement the sofa, don’t they?”
Here, you are saying that the curtains make the sofa look better. They enhance the room by adding a visual balance. - Fashion Example:
“The necklace is complementing your dress beautifully.”
This means that the necklace and the dress work well together, making the outfit look even better.
Complimenting in Daily Conversations
- Workplace Praise Example:
“My manager complimented me on my attention to detail in the report.”
This is an example of someone receiving praise for their efforts at work. - Friendly Compliment Example:
“I just wanted to compliment you on your presentation—it was so clear and engaging!”
Here, a compliment is given for good work, specifically for delivering a great presentation.
Conclusion
In summary, complementing and complimenting are homophones with very different meanings. Complementing involves something that enhances or completes, while complimenting is about giving praise or admiration. By understanding the context and applying the easy memory tips provided in this article, you’ll avoid the common grammar mistake of mixing these two words up.
- Use complementing when talking about things that go well together or enhance one another.
- Use complimenting when talking about praise or giving someone a positive comment.
With this knowledge, you can confidently use these words correctly in your writing and conversations.
