complimentary
kom-pli-MEN-tree
/ˌkɒmplɪˈmentri/
Given free of charge, especially as a courtesy or gift from the establishment.
Distinct from cheap or discounted; it indicates an item provided at zero cost as a hospitality gesture.
The story behind the word. Tracing back to Latin 'complere', the word passed through Italian 'complimento' (fulfillment of obligations of courtesy). In modern English hospitality, giving something 'with compliments' meant offering a free gift to express high regard.
Word relationships
- free: Complimentary carries a polite, professional, and gracious tone that 'free' lacks.
- gratis: Gratis is formal or legal Latinate phrasing, while complimentary is standard hospitality language.
- chargeable: Chargeable items must be paid for by the customer.
Commonly confused with
- complementary: Complimentary (with an 'i') means free or expressing praise; complementary (with an 'e') means completing or pairing well.
Word family
- compliment (noun): A polite expression of praise or admiration.
- compliment (verb): To express praise or admiration.
Collocations
- complimentary drink
- complimentary bread
- complimentary dessert
- complimentary service
Idioms & expressions
- on the house
Example sentences
- "The server brought a complimentary basket of warm bread and herbs to our table." Dining hospitality
Memory hook
ComplIMENTARY has an 'I' — think 'I love free things!' Free on the house.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'complementary' (spelled with an 'e'), which means completing or fitting well together.
Fun facts
- In Italian hospitality, complimentary treats were called 'omaggio', meaning a homage to the guest.
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