complimentory

The word "complimentary" has two primary meanings, both related to the concept of something being given freely or without charge.

One meaning of complimentary refers to something offered as a gift or free of charge. This is often seen in hotel services, such as complimentary breakfast or complimentary Wi-Fi. Businesses might offer complimentary samples of their products to potential customers. In this context, it signifies a gesture of goodwill or a promotional tactic.

The second meaning of complimentary relates to expressing praise or admiration. When someone gives a compliment, they are offering positive remarks about another person or their actions. For example, "She received a complimentary review for her performance." In this sense, it is an expression of approval and appreciation.

It is important to note the distinction between "complimentary" and "complementary." While they sound similar, "complementary" means something that completes or enhances something else. For instance, wine and cheese are often described as complementary flavors. The two words are not interchangeable, and using the incorrect word can alter the intended meaning significantly.