Complement vs. Compliment

Many people are not aware that these are two separate words. The two words are often confused and used interchangeably, or a writer will choose one spelling and stick with it for all uses. Trust me (and Mr. Webster), they are totally different words.

Complement as a noun refers to “something that fills up or completes”; as a verb it means “to be complementary to: fill out.” (Please consult your dictionary for other meanings.)

Her boldness was the perfect complement to his shyness.
That color really complements your eyes.

Compliment is a noun meaning “an expression of approval or admiration” or a verb meaning “to pay a compliment to.”

My compliments to the chef.
He complimented her for her gracious manners.

Putting it all together,

She received many compliments for her green dress, which complemented her eyes beautifully.

(Definitions from The Merriam-Webster Dictionary.)

Tags: complement, compliment