complimentary
kom-pluh-MEN-tree
/ˌkɒm.plɪˈmɛn.tər.i/
Expressing praise or admiration; given free of charge as a courtesy or favor.
Used either for praising remarks or for hotel amenities, tickets, and samples offered at no cost.
The story behind the word. The sense of 'given free of charge' developed in the 19th century from the customary phrase 'with the compliments of the author/publisher', where books or tokens were gifted as expressions of polite regard.
Word relationships
- praising: 'Praising' refers only to words of approval, while 'complimentary' can also mean given free of charge.
- gratuitous: 'Gratuitous' can imply unwarranted or uncalled-for addition, while 'complimentary' means given as a polite courtesy.
- uncomplimentary: 'Uncomplimentary' means critical or derogatory.
Commonly confused with
- complementary: 'Complimentary' has an 'i' for free gifts or admiring words; 'complementary' has an 'e' for matching parts.
Word family
- compliment (noun/verb): Praise; to praise.
- uncomplimentary (adjective): Expressing disapproval.
Collocations
- complimentary breakfast
- complimentary ticket
- highly complimentary
Example sentences
- "Guests at the boutique hotel were delighted to find complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi included in their stay." Hospitality
- "The film critic gave a highly complimentary review, praising the director's bold narrative vision." Media review
Memory hook
If it has an 'I', it is free for 'I' (me) or involves praise from 'I'. ComplImentary means free items or praising remarks.
When not to use
Do not use to describe two things that complete each other; use 'complementary'.
Fun facts
- A 'complimentary ticket' in theater history was often called a 'pass' or 'plug', stamped to ensure no money was collected at the door.
Related words
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