complement vs compliment
To complement is to complete or go well with something. To compliment is to praise. The wine complements the meal; the guest compliments the cook. Complement shares its root with complete.
The difference
- complement (verb / noun) — something that completes or pairs well
- compliment (verb / noun) — an expression of praise
Examples
- The scarf complements the coat.
- She paid him a compliment.
How to remember
Complement completes — both have the 'e'. Compliment is something 'I' like to receive.
The common trap
Using 'compliment' for things that pair well, e.g. 'the sides compliment the dish'.
These distinctions are exactly what Word Meaning and Contextual Word Choice questions test. Read the Word Meaning guide or Contextual Word Choice guide, then practise the drill.