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Compliments: meaning, definitions and examples

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compliments

[ˈkɒmplɪmənts ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

giving praise

Compliments are polite expressions of admiration, approval, or praise. They are often given to make someone feel good or appreciated.

Synonyms

admiration, approval, praise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compliments	Use to politely express admiration or approval towards someone's appearance, performance, or qualities. She received many compliments on her new dress. He complimented her on her singing performance.
praise	Use to express warm approbation, often for achievements or efforts. Can be used in both personal and formal settings. The teacher gave praise to the student for his excellent project. The CEO praised the team for meeting their targets.
admiration	Use to show a deep, often respectful, appreciation for someone or something. It can be used in both personal and professional contexts. Her dedication to her work earned my admiration. He felt admiration for the great achievements of historical figures.
approval	Use to express agreement or acceptance, often in a formal or official setting. Can imply endorsement of actions, plans, or behaviors. The manager's approval is needed before implementing the new policy. She gave her nod of approval after reviewing the document.

Examples of usage

She blushed at the compliment he gave her.
I received a lot of compliments on my presentation at work.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

formal expression of praise

A compliment is also a formal expression of praise or admiration, especially in a public context.

Synonyms

accolade, commendation, praise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compliments	Use this word in everyday interactions when you want to say something nice to someone about their appearance, behavior, or work. It is friendly and casual. She received many compliments on her new dress. Your presentation was really impressive. Compliments!
praise	This can be used both in everyday and formal contexts to express approval or admiration for someone’s actions, qualities, or achievements. It has a broad usage range. The teacher gave the student a lot of praise for their hard work. The manager praised the team for completing the project ahead of schedule.
accolade	This word is more formal and often used in professional or academic settings. It refers to an award or an expression of praise for someone’s achievements. He received the highest accolade the company can give. Winning the Nobel Prize is an accolade that very few scientists achieve.
commendation	Use this in formal contexts, especially when acknowledging someone for their exemplary performance or service. It is often seen in written forms like certificates or letters. She received a commendation for her bravery during the fire. The soldier was given a special commendation for his service.

Examples of usage

The CEO paid her a compliment on her leadership skills.
He received a compliment for his outstanding performance in the competition.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

praising someone

To compliment someone means to praise or express admiration for them.

Synonyms

admire, applaud, praise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compliments	Use when you want to express polite and friendly words about someone's appearance, actions, or qualities. Compliments are often given casually in daily interactions. She received many compliments on her new dress. He gave her a compliment about her cooking skills.
praise	Use when you want to express warm approval or admiration for someone, often in a more formal or serious way. Praising can be done in both personal and professional contexts. The teacher praised the student for her excellent work. He received praise from his boss for his innovative ideas.
admire	Use when you have a deep sense of respect or approval for someone's abilities, qualities, or achievements. It is often used in a more personal or sincere manner. I really admire her dedication to her work. He admires his father for his strength and wisdom.
applaud	Use when showing approval or praise, typically in a public setting. The word often implies physical clapping or enthusiastic approval. The audience stood up to applaud the performer. We applaud your efforts in organizing this event.

Examples of usage

He complimented her on her beautiful dress.
She complimented him on his cooking skills.

Translations

Translations of the word "compliments" in other languages:

🇵🇹 elogios

🇮🇳 प्रशंसा

🇩🇪 Komplimente

🇮🇩 pujian

🇺🇦 компліменти

🇵🇱 komplementy

🇯🇵 褒め言葉 (ほめことば)

🇫🇷 compliments

🇪🇸 cumplidos

🇹🇷 iltifatlar

🇰🇷 칭찬 (chingchan)

🇸🇦 إطراءات

🇨🇿 komplimenty

🇸🇰 komplimenty

🇨🇳 赞美 (zànměi)

🇸🇮 komplimenti

🇮🇸 hrós

🇰🇿 мақтау

🇬🇪 კომპლიმენტები (komplimentebi)

🇦🇿 təriflər

🇲🇽 cumplidos

Etymology

The word 'compliment' comes from the Latin word 'complimentum', meaning 'fulfillment of ceremony'. It first appeared in English in the 16th century with the meaning of 'formal expression of praise'. Over time, it evolved to also include informal expressions of admiration or approval.

See also: complimentary, uncomplimentary.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,517, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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12514 malpractice
12515 sanctity
12516 seminary
12517 compliments
12518 tectonic
12519 unspecified
12520 stumbling
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