There is often confusion over the words 'complement' and 'compliment'.
Compliment
A compliment (with an i) is an expression of praise.
Examples:
 My compliments
to the chef for such a wonderful starter. 
(my praise to the chefs)
When I said
your eyes looked misty, I meant that as a compliment.
(I meant that as praise)
ComplementA complement (with
an e) is something that enhances something else or goes well with it. (For
example, cranberry sauce is a complement for turkey.)
The cashew
nuts were an excellent complement for the soup.
(cashew nuts went well with the soup)
The Verbs 'To Compliment' and 'To Complement'
The examples above all relate to nouns.
However, both words exist as verbs too.
I would like
to compliment the pilot on such a smooth landing.
(pass praise to the pilot)
The jade and
silver cufflinks complement the green tie.
(go well with the green tie)
He has worked
hard for many years to break my record. I can only complement him for such
terrific dedication. 
(should be 'compliment' - i.e., offer praise to him)
Select the correct version:
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THE LETTERS CAN HELP YOU REMEMBER
 The word "compliment"
has an "i" in it - just like "praise".
The word "complement"
has an "e" in it - just like "enhancement".
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Common grammar errors
