Sorry to be a nag. So many people don’t seem to get this right. I read some great blogs, but these two terms are always used incorrectly.

For example: ‘fabrics that complement each other’ means that the fabrics go nicely together, whereas: ‘fabrics that compliment each other’ means that fabrics say nice things to each other, like, ‘you look nice today. Are you organic cotton?’ You see what I mean.

Additionally, saying something is ‘complimentary’ means that it is free of charge. ‘Complementary’ means that it enhances or completes something.

For god’s sake. Bring proper grammar lessons back to our schools!

Which word would you choose?

The cream (compliments/complements) the cake.

She received many (compliments/complements) about her chamomile plants.

The cleaning service is provided with my (compliments/complements).

If you struggled with this concept, it’s probably because I didn’t explain it well. Please leave a comment and I will try again.