Complimenting

Compliments express approval and are aimed at showing that you like some aspect of the other person’s appearance, belonging or work. It is also to appreciate other people, but overuse of compliments might seem insincere.

Whom to Compliment:  
Anyone you have occasion to talk with (friends, family, colleagues, and even strangers)
What to Compliment

• Notice something new about the person’s appearance: new car, new haircut, a piece of jewellery, etc
• On a person of his or her general appearance: ‘You look good today’
• When visiting someone’s house for the first time: ‘What a beautiful house you have.’
• When hosts prepare a meal for you: ‘The meal was delicious’.

How to Compliment in formal or informal :

• I would like compliment you on …
• I think your (hair) is very nice.
• I just love your (dress).
• The (chicken) is very delicious.
• I really like your (skirt).
• This (cheese) is super.
• That’s not a bad (bike) you’ve got.
• That’s neat.
• That’s nice.
• That’s not bad.
• Terrific.
• Pretty good.
• OK!
• All right.

Response to Compliment :

• Thank you. It’s nice of you to say so.
• Thank you but really isn’t anything special.
• Thank you. Yours is even nicer.
• I’m glad you like it.
• Thank you.
• Thank you.

Returning Compliment :

• It’s nice to hear that from someone with your experience.
• Yours is nice, too.
• (It’s enough to say ‘Thank you” to a compliment. No further reply is required)