complimentary 🔊
Meaning of complimentary
Expressing praise, approval, or admiration; or given free of charge as a courtesy.
Key Difference
While 'complimentary' often implies something given freely (like a gift or service), its synonyms may focus more on praise or courtesy without the connotation of being free.
Example of complimentary
- The hotel offered complimentary breakfast to all its guests.
- She received a complimentary remark about her presentation skills.
Synonyms
flattering 🔊
Meaning of flattering
Praising someone excessively, sometimes insincerely.
Key Difference
'Flattering' often implies exaggeration or possible insincerity, whereas 'complimentary' is generally genuine.
Example of flattering
- His flattering comments made her blush, but she wondered if he meant them.
- The review was so flattering that it seemed exaggerated.
laudatory 🔊
Meaning of laudatory
Expressing high praise or admiration.
Key Difference
'Laudatory' is more formal and often used in written or official praise, while 'complimentary' is more casual and versatile.
Example of laudatory
- The laudatory speech at the award ceremony moved everyone.
- The article was laudatory, highlighting the scientist's groundbreaking work.
gratis 🔊
Meaning of gratis
Given or done without charge.
Key Difference
'Gratis' strictly means free of charge, while 'complimentary' can also imply praise or courtesy.
Example of gratis
- The samples were distributed gratis at the event.
- He offered his services gratis to support the charity.
admiring 🔊
Meaning of admiring
Showing respect or warm approval.
Key Difference
'Admiring' focuses on respect or approval, while 'complimentary' can also refer to free items.
Example of admiring
- She gave him an admiring glance after his speech.
- The crowd's admiring cheers boosted the team's morale.
free 🔊
Meaning of free
Not costing any money.
Key Difference
'Free' is a general term for no cost, while 'complimentary' often implies a gesture of goodwill.
Example of free
- The museum offers free entry on Sundays.
- They handed out free samples of the new product.
approving 🔊
Meaning of approving
Showing agreement or favor.
Key Difference
'Approving' is more about agreement, while 'complimentary' can include praise or free offerings.
Example of approving
- The teacher gave an approving nod to the student's answer.
- His approving smile encouraged her to continue.
courtesy 🔊
Meaning of courtesy
A polite gesture or remark.
Key Difference
'Courtesy' emphasizes politeness, while 'complimentary' can be more expressive or generous.
Example of courtesy
- He extended the courtesy of holding the door for her.
- The courtesy call ensured everyone was informed.
praise 🔊
Meaning of praise
Expressing warm approval or admiration.
Key Difference
'Praise' is solely about approval, while 'complimentary' has broader uses.
Example of praise
- The coach's praise motivated the players.
- Her work received high praise from critics.
honorary 🔊
Meaning of honorary
Given as an honor without the usual requirements.
Key Difference
'Honorary' is often used for titles or positions, while 'complimentary' is more general.
Example of honorary
- He was awarded an honorary degree for his contributions.
- She accepted the honorary chairmanship of the committee.
Conclusion
- 'Complimentary' is a versatile word used for both praise and free offerings, often as a gesture of goodwill.
- 'Flattering' is best when describing praise that may be excessive or insincere.
- 'Laudatory' works well in formal contexts where high praise is expressed.
- 'Gratis' should be used when strictly referring to something free of charge.
- 'Admiring' fits when the focus is on respect or warm approval.
- 'Free' is a straightforward term for no-cost items or services.
- 'Approving' is ideal for showing agreement or favor.
- 'Courtesy' emphasizes politeness in actions or remarks.
- 'Praise' is the go-to word for expressing admiration or approval.
- 'Honorary' is specific to titles or positions given as an honor.