Word
complimenting
Phoneticscom·pli·ment·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkɑmpɫəˌmɛntɪŋ/
UK/kˈɒmplɪməntɪŋ/
Definition
v. to say something nice about someone or something. You use this when you want to praise someone's appearance, work, or behavior.
v. to express praise or admiration for someone or something. Transitive — requires a direct object.
Examples
“She is complimenting your new haircut.”
“He spent the entire evening complimenting her on her professional skills and her choice of clothing.”
“While some people find constant complimenting uncomfortable, others view it as a necessary social lubricant that helps build confidence and foster positive relationships.”
Examples
simple
“She is complimenting your new haircut.”
contextual
“He spent the entire evening complimenting her on her professional skills and her choice of clothing.”
complex
“While some people find constant complimenting uncomfortable, others view it as a necessary social lubricant that helps build confidence and foster positive relationships.”
Real-World Examples
“Singer Billie Eilish was especially flirty, giggling after complimenting Dimoldenberg's body.” “FitzSimons said C explained that he was a junior employee at 2GB and in his early 20s and Jones was “the sun king” when he started paying attention to him and complimenting him.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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