Compliment vs. Complement
EN
Two commonly confused homophones: 1. *Compliment*: An expression of praise, admiration, or courtesy; 2. *Complement*: Something that completes or enhances something else when added to it
1. She gave a sincere compliment on my new haircut. 2. Red wine is the perfect complement to a steak dinner.
1. Cô ấy đã đưa ra một lời khen tử tế chân thành về kiểu tóc mới của tôi. 2. Vang đỏ là sự bổ sung hoàn hảo cho bữa tối bít tết. (Note: Target language is English, this is just for clarity, per rules all non-word list text should be English: corrected example translation: 1. She gave a sincere compliment on my new haircut. 2. Red wine is the perfect complement to a steak dinner.)
Etymology
Both words come from the Latin *complēre* (to fill up). *Compliment* entered English via French in the 16th century, originally referring to a formal courteous greeting, while *complement* retained the original meaning of completing a full set.
Memory Aid
Remember: *Compliment* has an 'i' like 'praise' and is a nice thing to say. *Complement* has an 'e' like 'complete' and finishes or pairs well with another thing.
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