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B1 verb #36 सबसे आम 12 मिनट पढ़ने का समय

compliment

शीर्ष 36

At the A1 level, you can think of 'compliment' as a way to say something nice to someone. When you like someone's shirt, or you like their drawing, you say something good. That action is called 'complimenting.' It is like giving a small 'gift' with your words. For example, if you say 'I like your hat,' you are complimenting your friend. It is a very important word because it helps you make friends and be polite. You use it when you want to make someone feel happy. Remember, it is a verb, so you 'do' it. You can compliment your teacher, your mom, or your friends. It is always a happy and positive thing to do in English. Just remember to smile when you do it!

At the A2 level, you should know that 'compliment' means to express that you admire something about another person. It is more than just saying 'good'; it is about noticing something specific. You might compliment a friend on their new shoes or compliment your brother on his cooking. The word is often used with 'on.' So, you say 'I complimented him ON his car.' This is a very common social skill in English-speaking countries. When you go to someone's house, it is polite to compliment them on the food or the house. It shows you are paying attention and that you are a kind person. It is a regular verb, so in the past, you say 'complimented.'

As a B1 learner, you understand that 'compliment' is a transitive verb used to give praise or approval. It is an essential part of social and professional etiquette. You should be able to use the structure 'compliment someone on something' fluently. For instance, 'The manager complimented the staff on their efficiency.' This level also requires you to distinguish between a sincere compliment and flattery. You might hear this word in workplace feedback, social gatherings, or in customer service contexts. It is also important to recognize the noun form ('That is a nice compliment') and the difference between 'compliment' and 'complement' (which means to complete).

At the B2 level, you should be aware of the nuances of complimenting. It isn't just about the words, but the intent and the social context. You might discuss 'backhanded compliments'—praise that is actually a hidden insult. You should also be comfortable using the word in more complex sentence structures, such as the passive voice ('He was complimented by his peers for his leadership'). You understand that complimenting is a way to build social capital and rapport. You can use adverbs to modify the verb, such as 'lavishly complimenting' or 'sincerely complimenting.' At this level, you are expected to use the word accurately in both formal and informal writing, avoiding the common spelling confusion with 'complement.'

For C1 learners, 'compliment' is a word used to describe sophisticated social interactions. You understand its role in 'politeness theory' and how it can be used to mitigate face-threatening acts. You are familiar with more formal synonyms like 'commend,' 'laud,' or 'extol,' and you know when to use 'compliment' versus these more elevated terms. You might analyze how compliments are used in literature to reveal character motivations or power dynamics. You also understand the cultural variations in how compliments are given and received across the English-speaking world. Your usage is precise, and you can explain the etymological roots of the word and its evolution in the English language.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the word 'compliment' and all its connotations. You can use it in highly idiomatic ways and understand its most subtle applications in rhetoric and diplomacy. You might use it to describe a 'complimentary' (free) service in a high-end context, or discuss the philosophy of praise in human psychology. You are aware of the historical shift where 'compliment' and 'complement' became distinct words. You can navigate complex social situations where a compliment might be misconstrued and use your linguistic skill to clarify your intent. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker, showing a deep appreciation for its role in the fabric of human communication.

इसका अभ्यास करें उदाहरण नोट्स और सुझाव

compliment 30 सेकंड में

To compliment is to give praise or express admiration for someone's qualities, appearance, or achievements.
It is a transitive verb, usually following the pattern 'compliment someone on something.'
Complimenting is a key social skill used to build rapport and show politeness in various settings.
It is often confused with 'complement,' which means to complete or enhance something else.

To compliment is a fundamental social action that involves expressing admiration, respect, or approval toward another person. At its core, it is a verbal or written gift—a way to acknowledge someone's efforts, appearance, or character. In the English-speaking world, complimenting is considered an essential 'social lubricant' that helps build rapport and maintain positive relationships. Whether you are telling a colleague they did a great job on a presentation or telling a friend that their new haircut looks fantastic, you are engaging in the act of complimenting. It is important to distinguish this from mere flattery; a true compliment is perceived as sincere and earned, whereas flattery can sometimes feel manipulative or excessive.

Social Function: Complimenting serves to validate others and reinforce positive behaviors within a community or workplace.

The manager took a moment to compliment the team on their hard work during the product launch.

When we use this word as a verb, we are describing the specific action of speaking or writing those kind words. It is often followed by the preposition 'on' to specify what is being praised. For example, you don't just 'compliment someone,' you 'compliment someone on their success.' This structure is vital for B1 learners to master. The word carries a positive connotation and is rarely used in negative contexts unless it is being described as 'backhanded' (a compliment that is actually an insult).

She was shy, but she managed to compliment the musician after the beautiful performance.

Professional Context: In business, to compliment a partner or employee is to provide positive reinforcement, which can increase productivity and morale.

The act of complimenting is also deeply tied to cultural norms. In some cultures, it is polite to accept a compliment with a simple 'Thank you,' while in others, modesty dictates that you should downplay the praise. Understanding how to use the verb 'compliment' also requires understanding these social dynamics. If you compliment someone too much, you might seem insincere. If you never compliment anyone, you might seem cold or unobservant. Finding the right balance is key to effective communication in English.

It is polite to compliment the host on the delicious meal they prepared for the party.

I would like to compliment the staff for their excellent customer service during my stay.

Etymological Note: The word comes from the Italian 'complimento,' which refers to an expression of respect or civility.

Don't forget to compliment your sister on her graduation; she worked very hard for it.

Using the verb compliment correctly requires attention to sentence structure, specifically the use of objects and prepositions. The most common pattern is: [Subject] + compliment + [Object (Person)] + on + [Noun/Gerund]. This structure allows you to be specific about what you are praising. For example, 'I complimented him on his tie' or 'They complimented her on winning the race.' Without the 'on' phrase, the sentence 'I complimented him' is still grammatically correct but lacks the detail often expected in natural conversation.

Transitive Usage: The verb is transitive, meaning it must have a direct object—the person or thing receiving the praise.

The teacher complimented the student's essay for its original ideas and clear structure.

Another way to use the word is in the passive voice, which is common in formal reporting or storytelling. 'He was complimented by the judges' focuses on the person receiving the praise rather than the person giving it. This is useful when the identity of the praiser is less important than the fact that the praise occurred. Additionally, 'compliment' can be used with adverbs to show the manner of the praise. You can 'sincerely compliment,' 'lavishly compliment,' or 'briefly compliment' someone. These adverbs add flavor and context to the action.

Everyone complimented the chef on the exquisite presentation of the dessert course.

Gerund Pattern: Use 'on' followed by an -ing verb to describe an action: 'She complimented him on speaking so well.'

In more formal contexts, you might see 'compliment' used in the phrase 'to compliment someone for something.' While 'on' is more common for physical attributes or specific achievements, 'for' is often used for qualities or general actions. For instance, 'The mayor complimented the citizens for their bravery during the storm.' Understanding these subtle prepositional shifts can help you sound more like a native speaker. It is also worth noting that 'compliment' is a regular verb, so its forms are compliment, complimented, and complimenting.

The critics complimented the director for her bold vision and innovative use of light.

I must compliment you on your choice of music; it really set the perfect mood for the evening.

Negative Usage: While rare, you can use it negatively: 'He rarely compliments anyone, which makes people feel undervalued.'

She complimented the gardener on the vibrant colors of the spring flower beds.

You will encounter the verb compliment in a variety of settings, ranging from the highly formal to the everyday casual. In a professional environment, it is often heard during performance reviews or team meetings. A boss might say, 'I want to compliment the marketing team on the success of the recent campaign.' Here, it serves as a formal acknowledgement of achievement. In the hospitality industry, you will hear it frequently; guests might compliment the chef on a meal, or a hotel manager might compliment a guest on their patience during a delay. It is a word that signifies politeness and high-quality service.

Workplace Setting: Used to provide positive feedback and boost morale among colleagues and subordinates.

During the award ceremony, the CEO complimented the top performers for their dedication.

In social media and digital communication, the word is often used in comments or captions. You might see someone write, 'So many people complimented me on this outfit today!' or 'I just had to compliment her on her amazing photography.' In these contexts, it describes the social interaction that took place offline. In literature and film, 'compliment' is often used to show character dynamics—a charming character might compliment others to win them over, while a cold character might pointedly refuse to compliment anyone. It is a powerful tool for characterization.

The stranger complimented her on her singing as she walked through the park.

Social Media: Often used to describe positive interactions and 'likes' or 'comments' received on a post.

You will also hear it in news reports or interviews when a public figure is being praised. A journalist might say, 'The President complimented the rescue workers for their tireless efforts.' In this way, the word moves from the personal sphere into the public one. It is also common in the world of fashion and art criticism. A critic might compliment a designer on their use of sustainable materials. Essentially, anywhere there is an evaluation of quality or beauty, the verb 'compliment' is likely to appear. It is a versatile word that bridges the gap between simple kindness and formal recognition.

My neighbor complimented me on the new flowers I planted in the front garden.

The interviewer complimented the candidate on her insightful answers to the difficult questions.

Customer Service: Customers often compliment staff to show appreciation for help that goes above and beyond.

He complimented his wife on her patience while they were teaching their son to drive.

The most frequent and notorious mistake involving the word compliment is confusing it with its homophone, complement. While they sound identical, their meanings are entirely different. To 'compliment' (with an 'i') is to praise. To 'complement' (with an 'e') is to complete or enhance something. For example, 'The wine complements the steak' means they go well together. 'The waiter complimented the steak' means the waiter said the steak was excellent. Mixing these up is a common error even for native speakers, especially in writing. A good mnemonic is that a compliment is something I like to give or receive.

Spelling Confusion: Compliment (Praise) vs. Complement (Complete). This is the #1 error in English writing.

Incorrect: He complemented her on her dress. (This implies the dress and the man somehow completed each other, which is not what was intended!)

Another mistake is using the wrong preposition. Learners often say 'compliment to someone' or 'compliment about something.' As discussed, the standard preposition is 'on.' Saying 'I complimented him about his car' is understandable but sounds slightly off to a native ear. 'I complimented him on his car' is the natural choice. Additionally, some learners use 'compliment' when they actually mean 'congratulate.' While similar, 'congratulate' is for a specific achievement or milestone (like a wedding or a promotion), while 'compliment' is for a quality or an attribute (like beauty, skill, or a nice gesture).

Correct: I complimented her on her intelligence during the debate.

Over-Complimenting: In some cultures, complimenting too much can be seen as 'sucking up' or being 'insincere' (brown-nosing).

Finally, be careful with 'backhanded compliments.' This is a phrase used to describe an insult disguised as praise. For example, 'I compliment you on your courage for wearing such a bold, albeit ugly, outfit.' This is a social mistake rather than a grammatical one, but it is important to understand the nuance. A true compliment should be purely positive. If you add a 'but' or a negative qualifier, you are no longer truly complimenting the person; you are likely offending them. Mastering the verb 'compliment' means mastering the art of being genuinely kind without any hidden agendas.

He complimented the host on the food, but his tone suggested he didn't really mean it.

She complimented the artist on the intricate details of the sculpture.

Preposition Usage: Always use 'on' for specific things: 'compliment someone on their hair/shoes/work.'

The audience complimented the speaker on her engaging and humorous delivery.

While compliment is a great all-purpose word, English offers many alternatives that can provide more specific meaning or fit different registers. 'Praise' is perhaps the closest synonym, but it often feels more significant or public. You might praise a hero or praise God, whereas you compliment a friend on their shoes. 'Commend' is a more formal version, often used in official documents or by authorities. A police officer might be commended for their bravery. 'Laud' and 'extol' are even more formal and are usually found in academic or literary writing, describing high levels of public acclaim.

Praise vs. Compliment: Praise is often more intense or formal; compliment is more social and everyday.

The professor commended the student for her groundbreaking research in biology.

On the more informal side, we have words like 'flatter.' However, 'flatter' often has a negative connotation, suggesting that the praise is insincere or intended to get something in return. If you 'flatter' someone, you might be trying to manipulate them. 'Applaud' is another alternative, which can be literal (clapping hands) or figurative (expressing strong approval). For example, 'I applaud your decision to go back to school.' This feels stronger and more supportive than a simple compliment. In slang, you might hear people say they are 'giving props' or 'giving a shout-out' to someone, which serves the same social function as a compliment but in a very casual register.

She flattered the boss in hopes of getting a promotion, but everyone saw through it.

Formal Alternatives: Commend, Laud, Extol, Acclaim, Honor.

Understanding these differences helps you choose the right word for the right situation. If you are writing a formal letter of recommendation, you wouldn't just say you 'complimented' the person; you would say you 'highly commend' them. If you are talking to a friend about their new car, 'compliment' is perfect. If you are talking about a great leader, 'praise' or 'laud' might be better. By expanding your vocabulary beyond just 'compliment,' you can express a wider range of approval and admiration with greater precision and impact.

The critics lauded the new film as a masterpiece of modern cinema.

I want to applaud your commitment to environmental sustainability.

Informal Alternatives: Give props, Big up, Shout out, Hype up.

He extolled the virtues of a healthy diet to anyone who would listen.

How Formal Is It?

औपचारिक

तटस्थ

अनौपचारिक

Child friendly

बोलचाल

रोचक तथ्य

Until the 17th century, 'compliment' and 'complement' were actually the same word. They both came from the Latin 'complementum' (that which fills up). They eventually split into two different spellings to distinguish between 'praise' and 'completing something.'

उच्चारण मार्गदर्शिका

UK /ˈkɒmplɪment/

US /ˈkɑːmplɪment/

Primary stress is on the first syllable: COMP-li-ment.

तुकबंदी

implement supplement element settlement gentlement merriment sentiment detriment

आम गलतियाँ

Stressing the last syllable (compli-MENT) - this is usually the noun form, though they are very similar.
Pronouncing the 'i' like an 'e' (comple-ment).
Confusing the pronunciation with 'complement' (they are homophones, so they sound the same).

कठिनाई स्तर

पठन 3/5

Easy to recognize in context, but watch out for the 'complement' spelling.

लिखना 4/5

Requires correct spelling and the use of the preposition 'on'.

बोलना 3/5

Natural use requires understanding social cues and sincerity.

श्रवण 2/5

Usually clear, but can be confused with 'complement' in fast speech.

आगे क्या सीखें

पूर्वापेक्षाएँ

praise nice say good like

आगे सीखें

commend flatter appreciate acknowledge congratulate

उन्नत

adulation encomium panegyric laudatory sycophant

ज़रूरी व्याकरण

Transitive Verbs

You must compliment *someone*.

Prepositional Phrases with 'On'

Compliment her *on her success*.

Gerunds after Prepositions

Compliment him on *winning*.

Passive Voice

He *was complimented* by the teacher.

Homophones

Compliment (praise) vs Complement (complete).

स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण

I want to compliment your nice drawing.

Je veux complimenter ton joli dessin.

Subject + verb + object.

She complimented my new red shirt.

Elle a complimenté ma nouvelle chemise rouge.

Past tense of 'compliment' is 'complimented'.

Please compliment the chef on the pizza.

S'il vous plaît, complimentez le chef pour la pizza.

Imperative form used for a request.

He compliments his friends every day.

Il complimente ses amis tous les jours.

Third person singular adds 's'.

They complimented her on her beautiful song.

Ils l'ont complimentée sur sa belle chanson.

Use 'on' for the reason of the compliment.

I like to compliment people to make them happy.

J'aime complimenter les gens pour les rendre heureux.

Infinitive 'to compliment' after 'like'.

Did you compliment her on her new hair?

Est-ce que tu l'as complimentée sur ses nouveaux cheveux ?

Question form using 'did'.

My mom complimented me for cleaning my room.

Ma maman m'a complimenté pour avoir rangé ma chambre.

Using 'for' + -ing verb.

The teacher complimented the class on their good behavior.

Le professeur a complimenté la classe pour son bon comportement.

Compliment + object + on + noun phrase.

You should compliment your sister on her hard work.

Tu devrais complimenter ta sœur pour son travail acharné.

Modal verb 'should' followed by base verb.

He complimented her on the way she played the piano.

Il l'a complimentée sur sa façon de jouer du piano.

Compliment + object + on + the way...

Everyone complimented the host on the lovely party.

Tout le monde a complimenté l'hôte pour la charmante fête.

Subject 'Everyone' takes a singular verb form in present, but here it is past.

I always compliment my colleagues when they do well.

Je complimente toujours mes collègues quand ils réussissent.

Adverb 'always' before the verb.

She complimented him on his ability to speak Spanish.

Elle l'a complimenté sur sa capacité à parler espagnol.

Compliment + on + noun (ability).

The coach complimented the team after the game.

L'entraîneur a complimenté l'équipe après le match.

Simple past tense.

It is nice to compliment someone on their kindness.

C'est gentil de complimenter quelqu'un pour sa gentillesse.

It is + adjective + to + verb.

The manager complimented Sarah on her excellent presentation skills.

Le manager a complimenté Sarah sur ses excellentes compétences en présentation.

Professional context.

I'd like to compliment you on how you handled that difficult customer.

J'aimerais vous complimenter sur la façon dont vous avez géré ce client difficile.

Conditional 'would like to' for politeness.

He was complimented by the judges for his unique artistic style.

Il a été complimenté par les juges pour son style artistique unique.

Passive voice: was complimented by.

Don't forget to compliment the chef on the seasoning of the soup.

N'oubliez pas de complimenter le chef sur l'assaisonnement de la soupe.

Negative imperative 'Don't forget'.

She complimented him on his punctuality during the project.

Elle l'a complimenté sur sa ponctualité pendant le projet.

Focus on a professional attribute.

They complimented the volunteers for their selfless contribution.

Ils ont complimenté les bénévoles pour leur contribution désintéressée.

Using 'for' for a general contribution.

The interviewer complimented the applicant on her impressive resume.

L'interviewer a complimenté la candidate sur son CV impressionnant.

Formal interview setting.

I complimented her on her garden, which was full of blooming roses.

Je l'ai complimentée sur son jardin, qui était plein de roses en fleurs.

Relative clause 'which was...' adding detail.

The CEO complimented the entire department on exceeding their annual targets.

Le PDG a complimenté tout le département pour avoir dépassé ses objectifs annuels.

Compliment + on + gerund phrase.

She was sincerely complimented on her diplomatic approach to the conflict.

Elle a été sincèrement complimentée pour son approche diplomatique du conflit.

Adverb 'sincerely' modifying the passive verb.

It's important to compliment your partner on the small things they do.

Il est important de complimenter votre partenaire pour les petites choses qu'il fait.

Gerund phrase as subject.

He complimented her on her resilience in the face of such adversity.

Il l'a complimentée sur sa résilience face à une telle adversité.

Abstract noun 'resilience' as the object of 'on'.

The critics complimented the author on her nuanced character development.

Les critiques ont complimenté l'auteur sur le développement nuancé de ses personnages.

Literary context.

I must compliment you on your choice of words; they were very persuasive.

Je dois vous complimenter sur votre choix de mots ; ils étaient très persuasifs.

Modal 'must' for emphasis.

She was frequently complimented on her ability to stay calm under pressure.

Elle était fréquemment complimentée sur sa capacité à rester calme sous la pression.

Adverb of frequency 'frequently'.

They complimented the architect on the seamless integration of the building into the landscape.

Ils ont complimenté l'architecte sur l'intégration parfaite du bâtiment dans le paysage.

Complex noun phrase after 'on'.

The board of directors complimented the CFO on her astute fiscal management.

Le conseil d'administration a complimenté la directrice financière pour sa gestion fiscale avisée.

High-level professional vocabulary.

He was complimented for his erudition and his contribution to the field of linguistics.

Il a été complimenté pour son érudition et sa contribution au domaine de la linguistique.

Formal 'complimented for' structure.

The Prime Minister complimented the citizens on their unwavering resolve during the crisis.

Le Premier ministre a complimenté les citoyens pour leur résolution inébranlable pendant la crise.

Political/National context.

She complimented the pianist on his delicate touch and emotional depth.

Elle a complimenté le pianiste sur son toucher délicat et sa profondeur émotionnelle.

Artistic critique.

The reviewers complimented the software developers on the intuitive user interface.

Les critiques ont complimenté les développeurs de logiciels sur l'interface utilisateur intuitive.

Technical context.

I would like to compliment the organizers on the flawless execution of the symposium.

J'aimerais complimenter les organisateurs sur l'exécution sans faille du symposium.

Formal academic setting.

He complimented her on the sagacity of her observations regarding the market trends.

Il l'a complimentée sur la sagacité de ses observations concernant les tendances du marché.

Use of 'sagacity' (wisdom).

The mentor complimented the protégé on her rapid acquisition of complex skills.

Le mentor a complimenté la protégée sur son acquisition rapide de compétences complexes.

Relationship-specific context.

The laureate was complimented by her peers for the sheer audacity of her hypothesis.

La lauréate a été complimentée par ses pairs pour l'audace pure de son hypothèse.

Academic/Scientific acclaim.

He complimented the diplomat on the subtle art of maintaining peace through discourse.

Il a complimenté le diplomate sur l'art subtil de maintenir la paix par le discours.

Diplomatic/Philosophical context.

The critic complimented the filmmaker on the hauntingly beautiful cinematography.

Le critique a complimenté le cinéaste sur la cinématographie d'une beauté envoûtante.

Advanced descriptive adverbs.

She complimented the philosopher on the cogency of his ontological arguments.

Elle a complimenté le philosophe sur la force de ses arguments ontologiques.

Highly specialized vocabulary.

The monarch complimented the general on the strategic brilliance of the campaign.

Le monarque a complimenté le général sur l'éclat stratégique de la campagne.

Historical/Formal register.

I must compliment you on the impeccable timing of your intervention.

Je dois vous complimenter sur le timing impeccable de votre intervention.

Abstract concept 'timing'.

The audience complimented the orator on the mellifluous quality of his voice.

Le public a complimenté l'orateur sur la qualité mélifflue de sa voix.

Use of 'mellifluous' (sweet-sounding).

She complimented the curator on the evocative arrangement of the artifacts.

Elle a complimenté le conservateur sur la disposition évocatrice des artefacts.

Museum/Curation context.

सामान्य शब्द संयोजन

compliment someone on

sincerely compliment

lavishly compliment

backhandedly compliment

pay a compliment

return the compliment

fish for compliments

compliment the chef

highly compliment

take as a compliment

सामान्य वाक्यांश

I must compliment you on...

May I compliment you on...

Compliments of the house

Compliments to the chef

With my compliments

Return the compliment

Left-handed compliment

Fishing for compliments

Take it as a compliment

Compliment someone's style

अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है

compliment vs complement

To complete or enhance. Example: The wine complements the meal.

compliment vs congratulate

To praise for a specific achievement like a promotion. Example: I congratulated her on her new job.

compliment vs flatter

To praise insincerely. Example: He flattered her to get what he wanted.

मुहावरे और अभिव्यक्तियाँ

"Return the compliment"

To do something for someone that is similar to what they have done for you, or to praise them back.

He helped me with my bags, so I returned the compliment by buying him lunch.

Neutral

"Fish for compliments"

To try to make someone praise you, often by being modest or self-deprecating.

When she said she was a bad singer, she was just fishing for compliments.

Informal

"Backhanded compliment"

A remark that seems like a compliment but is actually an insult.

That dress is so brave; I could never wear something like that.

Neutral

"Left-handed compliment"

Another term for a backhanded compliment.

His praise for my 'effort' felt like a left-handed compliment.

Neutral

"Compliments of the season"

A formal greeting used during the Christmas and New Year period.

He sent a card with the compliments of the season.

Formal

"Pay someone a compliment"

To say something nice to someone.

It costs nothing to pay someone a compliment.

Neutral

"Take something as a compliment"

To choose to believe that a comment was intended to be nice.

She said I was 'different,' and I took it as a compliment.

Neutral

"With the compliments of..."

Used when giving something for free, usually from a company.

This wine is with the compliments of the manager.

Formal

"A backhanded compliment"

An ambiguous statement that can be taken as either praise or an insult.

He complimented her on her 'sturdy' build.

Neutral

"Compliment the chef"

To specifically praise the person who prepared a meal.

The steak was so good I had to compliment the chef.

Neutral

आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले

compliment vs complement

Identical pronunciation (homophones).

Compliment (with an 'i') is for praise. Complement (with an 'e') is for completing or enhancing.

The scarf complements her coat, and I complimented her on it.

compliment vs congratulate

Both involve saying something positive.

Congratulate is for a milestone or success. Compliment is for a quality or attribute.

I complimented her on her dress and congratulated her on her wedding.

compliment vs praise

Very similar meanings.

Praise is often more formal or intense. Compliment is more social and everyday.

The priest praised God, while I complimented my friend's shoes.

compliment vs commend

Both mean to give approval.

Commend is much more formal and often official.

The general commended the soldier for his bravery.

compliment vs flatter

Both involve giving compliments.

Flatter implies the praise is not entirely true or is given for a selfish reason.

Don't flatter me; I know I didn't do a good job.

वाक्य संरचनाएँ

I like your [noun].

I like your hat.

Subject + complimented + [person].

He complimented Sarah.

Subject + compliment + [person] + on + [noun].

I complimented him on his tie.

Subject + compliment + [person] + on + [gerund].

She complimented him on cooking dinner.

[Person] + was complimented + by + [person].

The chef was complimented by the guests.

Subject + commend + [person] + for + [noun].

The board commended the CEO for her vision.

Subject + extol + the virtues of + [noun].

He extolled the virtues of the new system.

It was a backhanded compliment.

Saying I'm 'sturdy' was a backhanded compliment.

शब्द परिवार

संज्ञा

क्रिया

विशेषण

इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें

frequency

Common in both spoken and written English.

सामान्य गलतियाँ

I complimented to her. → I complimented her.
Compliment is a transitive verb and does not need the preposition 'to'.
The wine complimented the cheese. → The wine complemented the cheese.
Use 'complement' (with an 'e') for things that go well together.
I complimented him about his work. → I complimented him on his work.
The standard preposition used with compliment is 'on'.
She was complimented for her new car. → She was complimented on her new car.
While 'for' is sometimes used, 'on' is the more natural choice for possessions.
He gave me a backhanded complement. → He gave me a backhanded compliment.
Even in the noun form, the 'i' spelling is used for praise/insults.

सुझाव

Be Sincere

People can usually tell if a compliment is fake. Only say it if you mean it.

Use 'On'

Remember the pattern: Compliment + Person + On + Thing.

Focus on Effort

In the workplace, complimenting someone's hard work is often better than complimenting their natural talent.

The 'I' Rule

Use 'i' for praise because 'I' like compliments.

Vary Your Words

Try using 'commend' or 'praise' to avoid repeating 'compliment' too much.

Accept Gracefully

In English, just say 'Thank you' when you are complimented.

Avoid Overuse

Too many compliments in one email can seem unprofessional or desperate.

Specifics Matter

A specific compliment (e.g., 'I love the color of that shirt') is better than a general one.

Compliment the Host

It is a standard rule of politeness to compliment the person who invited you.

याद करें

स्मृति सहायक

Remember the 'I' in Compliment: 'I' like to receive a compliment. 'I' am the one being nice.

दृश्य संबंध

Imagine a person handing a small, glowing gift box to another person. The box contains kind words.

Word Web

Praise Admire Approve Respect Kindness Social Polite Gift

चैलेंज

Try to compliment three different people today using the 'compliment someone on something' structure.

शब्द की उत्पत्ति

The word 'compliment' entered English in the mid-17th century from the French 'compliment.' It originally comes from the Italian 'complimento,' which means 'fulfillment of the requirements of courtesy.'

मूल अर्थ: A ceremonial act or expression of courtesy.

Romance (Latin root 'complementum')

सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ

Be careful when complimenting someone's physical appearance in a professional setting, as it can sometimes be perceived as inappropriate or harassing.

Compliments on appearance are common among friends, but in professional settings, it is safer to compliment skills or achievements.

The play 'Cyrano de Bergerac' is famous for its poetic compliments. The song 'Compliment' by Collective Soul. Oscar Wilde's famous quotes about the nature of compliments and flattery.

असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें

वास्तविक संदर्भ

Social Gatherings

I love your...
You look great!
Where did you get that?
That's a lovely...

Workplace

Great job on...
I really appreciate your...
Well done!
Your report was...

Dining Out

My compliments to the chef.
This is delicious.
Excellent service.
The food was wonderful.

Academic Settings

Insightful point.
Well-researched.
I like your argument.
Good presentation.

Family/Friends

I'm proud of you.
You're so good at...
I like how you...
You're so kind.

बातचीत की शुरुआत

"How do you usually react when someone compliments you?"

"Do you think people in your country compliment each other often?"

"When was the last time you complimented a stranger?"

"Is it better to compliment someone on their looks or their personality?"

"Have you ever received a backhanded compliment?"

डायरी विषय

Write about a time someone complimented you and it made your whole day better.

Do you find it easy or difficult to compliment others? Why?

Describe a situation where a compliment might feel insincere or uncomfortable.

How has the way people compliment each other changed with social media?

Write a letter complimenting someone you admire for their hard work.

अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल

10 सवाल

Both are used, but 'on' is much more common for specific things like appearance or a particular skill. 'For' is often used for more general actions or qualities, especially in formal contexts.

A backhanded compliment is an insult disguised as a compliment. For example, 'You're so smart for someone who didn't go to college.'

Yes, it is both a verb ('to compliment someone') and a noun ('to give someone a compliment').

Think of the 'I' in 'compliment.' 'I' like to receive praise. 'I' am being nice.

Yes, 'complimentary' can mean expressing praise, but it also commonly means 'free of charge' (e.g., complimentary breakfast).

Yes, in many English-speaking cultures, it is considered polite to give a small, sincere compliment to a stranger, such as on their dog or their outfit.

A compliment is usually sincere and based on truth. Flattery is often exaggerated or insincere, usually intended to gain something.

The most common and polite way to respond is with a simple 'Thank you' or 'That's very kind of you.'

Yes, it follows the standard pattern: compliment, complimented, complimenting.

Usually, you compliment a person *on* an object. You don't compliment the car itself; you compliment the owner on the car.