Word Usage
Mary W. Ng
June 26, 2009
complementary, complimentary
The adjective complementary means “completing something else”. The adjective complimentary means “admiring or free”.
| Incorrect: | We have received many complementary comments from our clients. |
| Correct: | We have received many complimentary comments from our clients. |
| Incorrect: | Complementary tickets are available to staff who wish to attend. |
| Correct: | Complimentary tickets are available to staff who wish to attend. |
| Incorrect: | There are two complimentary forces in nature. |
| Correct: | There are two complementary forces in nature. |