# complimenting

/ˈkɑmpɫəˌmɛntɪŋ/ (US) · /kˈɒmplɪməntɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/complimenting
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

to say something nice about someone or something. You use this when you want to praise someone's appearance, work, or behavior.

For teachers: 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.