This week’s column topic is The best compliment you have ever received, so for anyone studying English, here are some ways to give people compliments!

Note: Compliment vs. complement

Be aware: A compliment is“a polite expression of praise or admiration”, while a complement is “a thing that completes or brings to perfection” (a small difference in spelling can make a big difference in meaning!).

“Noticing” compliments: A compliment can be a great way to start making small talk. Start with what I like to call a “noticing” compliment and then ask a question or add a comment. For example…

• Is that a new scarf? It looks good on you! Where did you get it?
• Wow! Your handwriting is so neat! I wish I could write like that.
• You’re pretty good at that! Have you been practicing for a long time?

*Be careful with compliments about people’s appearance as they may seem too direct (depending on the situation). Compliments about hair, clothes, or accessories are generally safe, though.

Some ways to compliment someone’s appearance include... 

• It looks good (on you).
• It’s a good look (on you).
• It suits you.
• It matches your…
• You’re rocking it! (informal)
• You look like a million dollars/bucks! (informal, slightly cliche)

Some ways to compliment someone’s performance include...

• That was awesome!
• You did great!
• Nice one!
• You nailed it! (informal)
• You killed it! (informal)

Some ways to compliment someone’s ability include...

• You’re pretty good at…
• Not bad! I’m impressed!
• You’ve got skills!
• You kick butt/ass at… (informal) 
• Daaaamn… (very informal)

Accepting compliments: It can be difficult for some people to accept compliments, especially if they are modest or shy, but here are a few options…

A: You’re rocking those earrings! They look great on you.

B: Thanks! I got them for Christmas last year. (just say “thanks” and add a comment)

A: Wow! You look like a million bucks tonight!

B: Aww, thank you! You’re always so sweet! (show appreciation for the compliment)

A: You did great! Yours was probably the best presentation today!

B: Yours was really good, too! I liked the part about... (return the compliment)

A: Daaaamn… that’s an awesome painting!

B: It’s not bad, but I still need to work on this part more. (downplay the compliment)

There are many many more ways to give and accept compliments, but I hope this will give you some ideas! Although compliments make many of us feel shy or embarrassed, they also make people feel happy, recognized, and more confident in themselves. So, go ahead and give someone a compliment today!

Zach