This content includes information from experts in their field and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.
Our team of editors strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.
We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions
as it pertains to all aspects of your daily life. We constantly strive to provide you with the best information possible.
How to Compliment a Guy: Tips, Tricks, & Things to Say
Say these sweet nothings and he'll be yours—all over again.
Praise is crucial in any romantic relationship—yes, even for guys. Though your partner might exude coolness, confidence, and independence, trust us: When he does something right, he definitely wants to hear about it. Whether it's in the bedroom, around the house, or in a social situation, giving recognition where it's due will not only bring you closer to your partner but will also make him feel more secure in the relationship. That's always a good thing. Ahead, find a few tips on how to compliment a guy along with expert-approved accolades that will make him fall for you all over again.
Complimenting guys isn't all that difficult, but it can be a little intimidating. Check out the points below for some help getting started.
Compliment Him on His Physical Appearance
Like the rest of us, men like to be told they look good. And since you want to be the only person delivering that message, it's on you to make sure he's getting that kind of attention. Besides, a few comments on how he looks might even spiral into something a little more, well, sexy. And, as experts suggest, flirty compliments are a great way for couples to maintain intimacy and interest in their relationships.
Compliment a Guy on His Personality
Don't think you need to limit your compliments to romantic interests only—it's really not necessary. A good guy friend is just as deserving of the occasional affirmation. If he's a kind-hearted person, let him know. If he's more of a goofball, help him understand how appreciated his antics are. Even a few funny compliments can help him feel special. Besides, delivering these kinds of messages is an important way to make us feel valued and appreciated, which is an important part of self-esteem building.
Compliment Him on Specific Tasks
Not only is it nice to be appreciated for how we look and who we are, but it's also rewarding to get a few casual compliments for the things we do. Whether it's something simple like taking out the trash, or something a little more involved, it's good to get recognition.
Things to Keep in Mind While Giving Compliments
Shutterstock / Prostock-studio
Make Sure You're on the Same Page: A good compliment should make both parties feel good. Be sure not to make anyone feel uncomfortable. And if your compliment is given in a romantic context, be sure the person you're directing it toward feels the same way.
Be Specific When You Compliment Men: Good compliments aren't difficult to decode. Whether you want to reward him for being a handsome guy, a good listener, or crushing it out on the dance floor, it's important to cite the specifics. If not, you run the risk of seeming a little vague, and a little insincere.
Don't Compliment a Guy and Expect the Same in Return: A genuine compliment typically comes from a unique place. Saying something and expecting the same in return not only creates unnecessary pressure on the other person but also diminishes the sincerity of the gesture.
Consider the Context: The context of the situation can impact how a man receives a compliment. For example, a compliment in a professional setting will differ from one in a social setting. Make sure to consider the context and adjust accordingly.
Don't Get Hung Up on the Superficial Things: Comments that focus solely on a man's appearance or physique get old fast. Some of the best compliments focus on a man's character, accomplishments, or positive qualities instead.
Don't Overdo It: Sometimes, less really is more. Too many compliments can come off as phony or insincere. They might also make him feel a little uncomfortable after a while. Take things one at a time and just enjoy the moment.
"Rather than going to war with who is 'right' in the relationship, reward your partner for the way they think and problem solve," suggests Stacy Karyn, online dating consultant. "After all, you are a team, so it's best to start acting like one."
2. "You Always Know Exactly What to Say"
"Men want to make things better, solve problems, and make you feel more seen, heard, safe, and supported," says Allana Pratt, an intimacy expert and coach. Letting him know he made you feel better with his insightful words is a guaranteed win.
3. "You're an Incredible Father"
Shutterstock / o_shumilova
"Although this compliment often goes to moms, most men take pride in their fathering skills and appreciate the recognition," notes Michelle Afont, relationship expert, divorce attorney, and author of the book The Dang Factor. "Hearing what a great dad he is makes him want to be an even better dad. Complimenting his nurturing skills and his tenderness with his children will warm your man's heart in all the right places."
4. "I Love You Just the Way You Are"
"To be told you are accepted just the way you are is one of the greatest gifts you can receive," says Beverly Palmer, PsyD, psychologist and author of Demystifying Love: Strategies for a Successful Love Life, which is why this is such an incredible compliment. "The essence of a lasting love is total acceptance of your partner, with judgment suspended."
5. "You're Such a Good Cook!"
"Guys want to know that they are able to contribute and provide for you and, sometimes, they need reassurance that they have," explains Caitlin Bergstein, Boston-based matchmaker with Three Day Rule. "My boyfriend is a great cook and is typically the one to make dinner for us. For two years now, after my first few bites of food, he looks at me anxiously and asks if I like it. When I compliment his cooking, he is proud of his accomplishment."
6. "Can You Help Me Fix This?"
Yes, really. Showing you trust him to help you with a problem (or literally fix something that is broken) is one of the best ways to show him you trust him without repeating it over and over again. "This might sound weird, but men are natural fixers," says Ty Belknap, professional relationship coach. "They want to help, so don't be afraid to ask."
7. "You're a Great Listener"
"This compliment is twofold," says Justin Lavelle, Chief Communications Officer for Been Verified. "One is just he is good at listening to what you have to say, but more importantly it says that he is connecting with you as you need by simply listening to you and not trying to fix you."
"Men are bred to build and create," says Stephanie Lee, lifestyle strategist. "Complimenting him on how well he is doing at work or in his career will cause him to swell with pride and increase his desire to work even harder."
9. "Your Beard Looks Nice Today" Shutterstock / G-Stock Studio
You can change this one up to be more tailored to your partner, but the key here is to be specific. "Think of something about his physical looks or clothing that you know he likes and tell him how nice it looks," suggests Bergstein. "My boyfriend is very proud of his beard and when he's complimented on it, he lights up and it puts him in a great mood for the rest of the day."
10. "I'm Lucky to Have You"
"This little saying can mean a lot to your man," Lavelle says. "It says that he is doing something right in the relationship department," and everyone likes to hear that they're killing it in the romantic arena.
11. "Wow, You Really Know Everything About…."
One of the surest ways to a man's heart is to compliment him on a hobby he cares about. "All men know a lot about something, even if it's sports," Belknap says. "You may not like sports, but it certainly won't hurt to compliment him on his knowledge. It will make him feel good, and his buddies will be jealous that he has such a cool partner."
12. "That Was So Thoughtful"
It's important to give credit where it's deserved, and you might even notice that he's being thoughtful more often than you expect. "Chances are, he's actually thinking about you all the time, and when you notice he is, it'll reinforce him to keep doing thoughtful things," says Andrea Leiser, Boston matchmaker with Three Day rule. "Plus, you'll feel even stronger in the relationship when you notice how thoughtful he is every day."
13. "You Have Such a Good Heart"
"The more people hear things about themselves, the more they become a reality," Karyn says. "And I'm sure we can all agree that this world can sure use a bit more love. By building up your partner and the way they relate to others, you'll be creating a chain reaction of good hearts in the world. What compliment is better than that?"
14. "I Loved How You Took the Lead on This"
Shutterstock / Stokkete
ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb
If he put a lot of time into arranging something, give him a little heads-up that you noticed his hard work. "Complimenting his planning skills will encourage him to want to take the lead more often," Afont says. "Men are often hesitant to take the lead in the relationship for fear of backlash for making the 'wrong' choice in a restaurant, hotel, destination, or outing. Although his choice may not have been your choice, you need to appreciate and compliment his effort."
15. "You're Sexy"
Sexy compliments are simple and deadly effective. "Men are just like women in this regard; they love when you compliment them on their looks," Leiser says. "So if he shaved, got a haircut, or hit the gym, let him know how sexy he looks."
16. "You Handled That Really Well"
"Two of a man's inherent needs are to feel admired and respected by his lady," explains Susan Golicic, PhD, a certified relationship coach and co-founder of Uninhibited Wellness. "These two are tied to his status with you and make him feel important and a priority in your life."
17. "Your Smile Makes Me Melt"
Experts say it's a good idea to keep "dating" your partner long after your relationship is established, and sweet compliments like this one—that you might say to someone on the first few dates—accomplish this effect. "This compliment is also great because it promotes happiness in your relationship," Karyn says. "The more you appreciate each other's smiles, the more good times there are going to be. And, as a bonus non-verbal compliment, make sure to respond to your partner's smiles with your own to spread some extra good vibes."
18. "I Feel So Safe With You"
"It is in a man's nature to protect," Lavelle says. "He likes to hear that he is doing a good job by making those people who are in his inner circle feel safe."
19. Laugh at His Jokes
Indicating that you think he has a great sense of humor is one of the best ways you can flatter him. "All men are performers," Leiser says. "They need positive reinforcement for when they're trying to entertain you. The ultimate compliment is if you can play into his jokes and laugh together!"
20. "You're Totally My Hero"
If he saved the day, give him the props he deserves. "It's not that you can't do what he did," Pratt says. "It's that he did it for you. Praise him. Mean it. Say it from your heart. Be a little vulnerable and let him see how his support moves you."
Wrapping Up
That's it for our tips on how to compliment a guy, but be sure to check back in with us soon for more ways to break the ice! You can also sign up for our newsletter to enjoy similar kinds of content, as well as hit pieces on health, entertainment, and travel.
