How to Compliment a Guy or Girl

A good compliment for a guy or a girl is specific, sincere, and about more than looks. Instead of "You're hot," try "You have a really kind way of talking to people," or "That colour looks amazing on you." Notice something real, say it simply, and don't expect anything in return. Done well, a compliment makes someone feel seen, not just flattered.

• Be specific. "I love how you explained that" beats "You're smart."
• Be sincere. Only say what you actually think. People can usually tell.
• Mix looks with character. Compliments about effort, kindness, humour, or taste often mean more than appearance.
• Keep it short. One clear sentence is better than a paragraph.
• Don't attach a request. A compliment followed by "so can I have your number?" feels transactional.

Personality and character:

• "You have a great way of making people feel comfortable."
• "I love how passionate you are about your work."
• "You're genuinely funny. I can't remember the last time I laughed this much."
• "You're so thoughtful. You remembered something I mentioned weeks ago." Style and appearance:
• "That colour really suits you."
• "Your smile lights up the whole conversation."
• "You have great taste. Where did you find that?"
• "You look really happy today, and it suits you."

Men often say they rarely receive compliments, so a sincere one can stay with them for a long time. Personality and character:

• "I really admire how calm you are under pressure."
• "You're a great listener."
• "You're so good with your family. It's lovely to see."
• "You make me laugh more than anyone." Style and appearance:
• "That shirt looks great on you."
• "You have a really nice smile."
• "You look sharp today."
• "Your new haircut suits you."

In a relationship, compliments are an everyday way to show appreciation:

• "I'm proud of you."
• "Thank you for handling that today. It meant a lot."
• "I love the way you are with my family."
• "You're even more beautiful/handsome when you laugh."
• "I feel lucky to be with you." For some people, kind words like these are the main way they feel loved. Our guide to the 5 love languages explains why.

On a dating app, a specific compliment about someone's profile makes a much better opener than a comment on their looks:

• "Your travel photos are great. That mountain view looks incredible."
• "Anyone who rates their mother's cooking that highly is clearly a person of taste."
• "Your bio made me laugh, especially the bit about your plants." For more openers, see our conversation starters after matching.

• Comments on body shape or weight, especially early on. They often feel uncomfortable or objectifying.
• Backhanded compliments, like "You're pretty for someone who..." or "You look nice for once."
• Comparisons, like "You're so much better than my ex."
• Over-the-top flattery very early, which can feel insincere or like love-bombing.
• Sexual comments from someone you've just met. They're disrespectful and can be grounds for being reported and blocked.

Many people deflect compliments ("Oh, this old thing?"). A simple "Thank you, that's really kind" is enough, and it makes the other person glad they said it.

The best compliments come from paying attention. Notice something real, say it simply, and go beyond appearance. Whether it's a new match, someone you're dating, or your partner of many years, a sincere compliment is one of the easiest ways to make someone's day. On Mingle Mate, a thoughtful compliment about something in someone's profile is one of the easiest ways to start a conversation that actually goes somewhere.