Question

Which set of words demonstrates the correct usage of complement/complementary and compliment/complimentary?

a) The colors of her outfit complement each other perfectly.
b) She received a complimentary gift for her excellent performance.
c) The chef prepared a complementary sauce for the dish.
d) His kind words were a nice compliment to her hard work.

Answer 1

Complement and compliment have different meanings and are used correctly in the given set of words.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct usage of complement/complementary and compliment/complimentary in the given set of words is:

1. The colors of her outfit complement each other perfectly. In this sentence, complement is used to describe how the colors enhance or complete each other.
2. She received a complimentary gift for her excellent performance. In this sentence, complimentary is used to describe a gift that was given for free, as a kind gesture or as a token of appreciation.
3. The chef prepared a complementary sauce for the dish. In this sentence, complementary is used to describe a sauce that enhances or goes well with the dish.
4. His kind words were a nice compliment to her hard work. In this sentence, compliment is used to describe his kind words as a positive remark or praise towards her hard work.