Complimentarily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Social Psychology

• Research shows that receiving compliments can boost a person's self-esteem and confidence.
• Giving compliments can foster stronger social connections as it creates a positive feedback loop between people.
• The phenomenon of 'the compliment effect' demonstrates that individuals who receive compliments may perform better in tasks afterward.

Cultural Perspectives

• In some cultures, giving compliments is viewed as a way to show respect, while in others, it may be seen as flattery.
• In Japanese culture, compliments are often paired with humility, reflecting a deep societal value placed on modesty.
• Different cultures have varied norms on when and how to give compliments – for instance, in some European countries, direct compliments can be less common than in American culture.

Literature

• Compliments appear frequently in literature, often as tools of character development, showing the nature of relationships.
• Shakespeare masterfully weaved compliments in his plays, revealing complex social dynamics through the praise and flattery exchanged between characters.
• Famous novels often feature characters whose fate is swayed by the compliments or lack thereof from others, highlighting the power of words.

Pop Culture

• The phrase 'you complete me' from the movie 'Jerry Maguire' exemplifies how compliments capture deep emotional sentiments.
• Social media platforms have made it easier and more common for people to give and receive compliments, now often in the form of likes or kind comments.
• Reality TV shows frequently highlight the drama surrounding compliments and insults, showcasing how social dynamics can shift based on praise.

Main points about word origin

• The root word 'compliment' comes from the Latin 'complementum,' meaning 'that which completes,' suggesting that compliments can complete a person's happiness.
• Entered English around the 15th century, it initially described formal gestures of respect and has evolved to include praise.
• The addition of '-arily' turns the adjective 'complimentary' into an adverb, indicating the manner in which the action (giving compliments) is performed.

The word 'complimentarily' derives from 'complimentary', which comes from the Latin root 'complere', meaning 'to fill up' or 'to complete'. The evolution of the word reflects its use in expressing approval or praise, implying that such compliments fill a need for recognition in social interactions. Over time, the adjective form led to the adverbial form 'complimentarily', used to convey actions or statements made in a supportive or flattering way. This transition illustrates the importance of positive reinforcement in communication and the human desire for acknowledgment and appreciation.