What is complimentary? Pronunciation and usage in English

complimentary means . Learn how to pronounce and use complimentary through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of complimentary

complimentaryadjective

/ˌkɒmplɪˈmentri//ˌkɑːmplɪˈmentri/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "complimentary." It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown with emphasis and tips:

The General Rule:

  • com-pli-men-TAH-ry

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  1. com - Sounds like "com" as in "comfortable." (short "o" sound)
  2. pli - Sounds like "ply" as in "play." (short "i" sound)
  3. men - Sounds like "men" as in "man." (short "e" sound)
  4. TAH - This is the key! This syllable is pronounced with a "t" sound and a "ah" sound (like in "father"). It's often a little bit stressed.
  5. ry - Sounds like "ry" as in "sky." (short "i" sound)

Here's a more detailed breakdown with emphasis:

  • com-pli-men-TAH-ry
    • com (short "o" - as in "hot")
    • pli (short "i" - as in "bit")
    • men (short "e" - as in "pen")
    • TAH (stressed – think "father" sound)
    • ry (short "i" - as in "sky")

Resources for Hearing It:

Tips for Getting It Right:

  • The "tah" sound is crucial. Many people stumble on this. Practice saying "father" and then try to make it fit into the word.
  • Don't rush. Each syllable needs to be spoken clearly.
  • Listen to native speakers. Really paying attention to how they say it will help you internalize the rhythm and pronunciation.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some practice words to say?

Usage and examples with the word complimentary in English

Let's break down how to use the word "complimentary" in English. It can be a bit tricky because it has multiple meanings! Here's a detailed explanation with examples:

1. As an Adjective (Most Common Usage): Describing Something Free or Included

  • Meaning: This is the most frequent way to use "complimentary." It means "free" or "included." It describes something that you don’t have to pay for.
  • Examples:
    • "The hotel offered complimentary breakfast." (Breakfast was free.)
    • "We received complimentary drinks at the airport lounge." (Drinks were included.)
    • "The tickets were complimentary, so we didn't have to buy them." (The tickets were free.)
    • "The spa offered complimentary foot massages." (Foot massages were included as part of their service.)

2. As an Adjective (Describing Kind Words or Gestures): Sincere and Positive

  • Meaning: This describes words or actions that are genuinely kind, flattering, or appreciative. It means expressing praise or goodwill.
  • Examples:
    • “She received complimentary remarks about her new dress.” (She received sincere compliments.)
    • “The staff gave us complimentary upgrades to our room.” (They upgraded the room as a gesture of goodwill.)
    • “He offered complimentary advice on the project.” (His advice was helpful and delivered with sincerity.)
    • "The restaurant offered complimentary dessert to our table." (A nice gesture to end the meal)

3. As a Noun (Less Common): A Token of Appreciation

  • Meaning: This refers to a small gift or something offered as a gesture of thanks or goodwill – typically something that can be used or consumed.
  • Examples:
    • “They sent us a complimentary bottle of wine with our order.” (A free bottle of wine.)
    • "The hotel provided complimentary chocolates in our room." (Chocolates were offered for free).
    • “He gave me a complimentary pen as a thank you.” (A free pen as a token of gratitude.)

Key Differences & How to Tell Which Meaning is Intended:

  • Focus on “Free” vs. “Kindness”: If you’re talking about something that doesn’t cost money, use it as an adjective describing its cost (e.g., “complimentary breakfast”). If you’re talking about words or actions that are positive and heartfelt, use it to describe their nature (e.g., “complimentary remarks”).
  • Context is Crucial: The surrounding words and situation will usually make the meaning clear.

Common Phrases:

  • Complimentary access: Free access.
  • Complimentary service: Included service.
  • Complimentary use: Free use.

Resources for Further Learning:

Would you like me to:

  • Give you more examples related to a specific context (e.g., travel, dining, business)?
  • Help you practice using "complimentary" in a sentence?

Comment ()