120 Smart Ideas for How to Reply to a Compliment Naturally

Receiving a compliment can feel great—but knowing how to respond in the moment isn’t always easy. Whether someone praises your work, your outfit, or your personality, it’s normal to feel a little awkward or unsure about what to say next. Learning how to reply to a compliment can help you accept kindness with confidence and grace.

A thoughtful response not only shows appreciation, but also strengthens your connection with the person giving it. In this article, you’ll find practical and simple ways to reply to different types of compliments—whether you’re at work, with friends, or just out and about.

Simple and Gracious Replies

These are your go-to responses for any kind of compliment—whether someone praises your outfit, a meal you cooked, or a casual achievement. They’re polite, kind, and straightforward, making them perfect for everyday situations when you want to acknowledge the compliment without overthinking your reply. Use these when a warm “thank you” is all that’s really needed.

1. Thank you so much!

2. I really appreciate that.

3. That means a lot—thank you.

4. Thanks! I’m glad you noticed.

5. I appreciate your kind words.

6. So kind of you—thank you!

7. Thanks, I truly value that.

8. Thank you—it made my day.

9. I’m grateful for your compliment.

10. I appreciate you saying that!

11. Thanks for taking the time to say that.

12. That’s very kind—thank you.

13. Thank you, that’s so thoughtful.

14. I’m honored—thank you.

15. Your words really brightened my day.

16. That’s sweet of you to say!

17. I’m flattered, thank you!

18. Appreciate the compliment—thank you.

19. Thank you, that’s encouraging to hear.

20. I truly appreciate your feedback.

Humble but Confident Replies

These responses strike a balance between modesty and self-respect. They’re great for when someone compliments something you’ve worked hard on—like a project, a presentation, or a skill. Instead of brushing off the compliment or downplaying your effort, you acknowledge it with appreciation while staying grounded. This shows self-awareness and quiet confidence.

1. Thank you! I’ve put a lot of effort into that.

2. I appreciate it—it took time, but I’m proud of the result.

3. That’s really nice to hear. I’ve been working on improving.

4. Thanks! I’m happy with how it turned out.

5. I appreciate that—I’ve learned a lot through this experience.

6. Thank you! It’s been a journey, and I’m glad it shows.

7. I’m so grateful you noticed. It means a lot.

8. Thank you—hearing that makes the hard work feel worth it.

9. I’m proud of it too—thanks for the recognition.

10. Thanks! I’m glad the effort came through.

11. I appreciate it! I’m still learning, but I’m getting there.

12. Thanks, I had a lot of help along the way.

13. I’m really pleased with how it came out—thanks!

14. That means a lot. I was nervous about it!

15. Thank you—it’s been something I’ve put my heart into.

16. I’m honored you think so—thank you.

17. I’ve had great mentors—it’s nice to hear that.

18. I appreciate that. I’m trying to grow every day.

19. I’m thankful for the support—thanks for noticing!

20. I’m really touched by that—thank you.

Funny or Lighthearted Replies

If you have a playful personality or are speaking with close friends, these witty and humorous replies can keep the mood upbeat and fun. They’re not meant for formal settings, but they’re perfect when you want to make someone smile in return. These replies help you accept the compliment with humor and charm, without seeming boastful.

1. You have excellent taste! 😉

2. Stop it, I’m blushing!

3. I’ll take that as my daily ego boost—thanks!

4. You’re too kind… but please, go on.

5. Flattery will get you everywhere!

6. I knew this shirt was magic 😎

7. Are you trying to make me cry? Because it’s working.

8. Well now, my day is made!

9. I’ll try not to let that go to my head.

10. I swear I didn’t pay you to say that!

11. I’ll have to frame this moment.

12. Someone’s buttering me up today!

13. Can I hire you to follow me around?

14. Thanks! I’ll tell my mirror you agree.

15. Wow—guess I should post this compliment on my fridge.

16. Is this the part where I do a happy dance?

17. Can we make that my official title?

18. I appreciate that—now I feel ten feet tall!

19. That compliment just upgraded my mood.

20. And here I thought no one noticed my greatness today!

Professional Compliment Replies (Workplace or Networking)

In professional environments, compliments often come with a tone of formality and respect. These replies are tailored for workplace settings, networking events, or when speaking with colleagues, clients, or supervisors. They’re polished, courteous, and reflect professionalism while still showing gratitude and confidence.

1. Thank you—I’m glad my work met expectations.

2. I appreciate your feedback—it means a lot coming from you.

3. I’m grateful for the recognition—thank you.

4. Thank you—it was a team effort.

5. I value your support and kind words.

6. Thank you! I’m happy the project resonated with you.

7. I appreciate your professional insight—thank you for sharing that.

8. It’s encouraging to receive that feedback—thank you.

9. Thank you—it’s rewarding to see our work making an impact.

10. I’m honored by your compliment—thank you very much.

11. I appreciate the encouragement—it motivates me to keep improving.

12. Thank you—it’s been a great learning experience.

13. I’m thankful for the opportunity to contribute—thank you.

14. Your kind words are appreciated—thank you for the support.

15. Thank you—I’ve been fortunate to work with a great team.

16. I’m grateful for your kind recognition.

17. That’s generous of you to say—thank you.

18. Thank you! I strive to maintain that standard.

19. I’m glad my work aligns with your expectations—thank you.

20. It’s wonderful to hear such positive feedback—thank you.

Compliment Replies for Appearance or Style

Compliments on how you look, dress, or present yourself can sometimes feel awkward—but they don’t have to be. These responses are designed to help you accept appearance-related praise with grace and ease, whether it’s about your outfit, hair, or overall vibe. They’re friendly, polite, and help you feel comfortable responding to personal remarks.

1. Thank you! It’s one of my favorite pieces.

2. I really appreciate that—thanks for noticing!

3. That’s so sweet—thank you!

4. You just made my day—thank you!

5. Thanks! I felt good in this today.

6. That’s very kind of you—thank you!

7. Thanks! I love how it turned out too.

8. I appreciate that—I was hoping it would come together.

9. Thank you! I’ve been trying something new lately.

10. Thanks! I had fun putting this look together.

11. So glad you like it—thank you!

12. That means a lot—thank you for noticing.

13. Thanks! I was inspired to try something different.

14. I appreciate the compliment—it’s always nice to hear.

15. Thank you—I wasn’t sure at first, but I love it now.

16. That’s kind of you—thank you for saying so.

17. Thanks! I’m really enjoying this style lately.

18. Thank you! I tried something bold and I’m glad it worked.

19. You’re too kind—thanks for making me smile.

20. Appreciate that—it gave me a little confidence boost today!

Complimenting Them Back (When Appropriate)

Sometimes a compliment is the perfect chance to return the kindness. These replies allow you to accept the compliment while also recognizing something great about the other person. It creates a moment of mutual appreciation and connection, especially in casual or social settings. Just be sure your return compliment is genuine and not forced.

1. Thank you—and by the way, you’ve got amazing taste too.

2. I appreciate that! I’ve always admired your sense of style.

3. Thanks! And I love the way you carry yourself, honestly.

4. That means a lot—especially coming from someone as talented as you.

5. Thank you! And your energy always brightens the room.

6. I’m flattered—thank you! I was just thinking how great you look today.

7. Thanks! You’re always so thoughtful and encouraging.

8. That’s so kind—and I’m lucky to know someone as supportive as you.

9. Appreciate that—and I’ve always admired your confidence.

10. Thanks so much! You’re one of the most positive people I know.

11. Your compliment means a lot—you’ve always been great at lifting others up.

12. Thank you! You always know just the right thing to say.

13. I appreciate that! You’ve got such a great eye for detail.

14. Thanks—and I was actually going to say the same about you!

15. So sweet of you to say! And your new haircut? Perfect.

16. That’s lovely of you—and I’ve been meaning to compliment your vibe too.

17. You’re too kind—and seriously, your style is on point today.

18. Appreciate that! And I’m always inspired by how creative you are.

19. Thanks—and you’ve been killing it lately, too!

20. Thank you! You’re such a kind soul—it shows in everything you do.