A complement is something that completes or goes well with something else. A compliment is an expression of praise. Both words also work as verbs.
Choose complement when things fit together
The peach saucer complements the lavender cup. The verb says the two items look good together. In The saucer is a complement to the cup, the noun names the item that completes the set. In grammar, a complement is a word or group of words that completes a structure.
Choose compliment for praise
The guest complimented the potter on the glaze. The verb says the guest praised the potter. In The potter thanked the guest for the compliment, the noun names the praise. The e in complete can help you remember complement. See complimentary vs. complementary for the related adjectives.
