gives positive feedback that highlights an inherent trait or accomplishment

builds rapport, shows appreciation, encourages continued effort

after observing someone’s performance at social gatherings, during professional meetings, when receiving help from peers

informal everyday conversations, workplace interactions, personal relationships; used across casual and semi‑formal settings

compliment; on

compliment; on

[person] / [quality/skill/achievement]

• sincerely
• highly
• profusely
• deserves to be complimented on

• congratulate for
• praise for

using *compliment about* instead of *on*, mixing with expressions like ‘congratulate about’ which are less common in English

praise for (more general), congratulate for (often tied to events or outcomes)

Some languages require the preposition ‘for’ after compliments; learners may default to ‘about’, leading to perceived imprecision.

• praise for
• congratulate on
• commend for
• laud for

'Compliment on' emphasizes an inherent quality or skill, whereas 'congratulate on' is typically reserved for achievements or milestones.

Creates a warm, polite atmosphere and can soften criticism by acknowledging positive aspects.

compliment on

This chunk is frequently used in positive feedback scenarios, helping to build a supportive and encouraging environment. The fixed preposition 'on' is crucial for correct usage, distinguishing it from similar expressions like 'congratulate for'.

use ‘pay someone a compliment on’ for formality; ‘extol’ for very high praise (advanced)