Complementary vs Complimentary: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Complementary" means things that complete each other, while "complimentary" is used to describe something that is free of charge or given as praise.
Memory Tip: complementary = completes, complimentary = free or flattery
complementary has /plem/, complimentary has /plim/ sound
complementary /ˌkɒmplɪˈmentəri/
adjectiveComplementary refers to things that combine in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other.
Example:
The complementary nature of the two disciplines becomes evident when we see how psychology and neuroscience work together to provide a more comprehensive understanding of human behavior.
Common patterns:
complementary skills
complementary colors
complementary roles
complimentary /ˌkɒmplɪˈmentəri/
adjectiveGiven free of charge or as a courtesy.
Example:
The hotel offered a complimentary breakfast to all its guests, which was a pleasant surprise that added value to their stay.
Common patterns:
complimentary ticket
complimentary remarks
complimentary service
Common Mistakes
The hotel offered complementary breakfast every morning.
The hotel offered complimentary breakfast every morning.
The breakfast is provided free of charge, so 'complimentary' is correct.
The two artists have complimentary styles that enhance each other's work.
The two artists have complementary styles that enhance each other's work.
The styles complete or enhance each other, so 'complementary' is correct.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. The ____ nature of the two disciplines becomes evident when we see how psychology and neuroscience work together to provide a more comprehensive understanding of human behavior.
2. The hotel offered a ____ breakfast to all its guests, which was a pleasant surprise that added value to their stay.
Other Confusing Words
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