Your arms look really toned. Have you been working out?: Now as a man, I'll begin with what I know all men want to hear. Yes ladies, we are as paranoid about our appearance as you are. Complimenting our physique will definitely boost our confidence.
You look beautiful: A cliche, right. But work it on your wife and it is an automatic 'get out of mess free card' for anything wrong you may have done that day or a week prior to it.
You smell lovely: These three words have put bigger smiles on people's faces than a Cheshire cat's grin. Follow it with 'you have just got to tell me the name of that perfume' even if you know they aren't really wearing one and you'll score 100 points pronto.
This meal is amazing: Now the response to this is almost always: "No, I put too much salt." But it will still have the chef rushing to bring you that recipe. If you deliver this one right, it will probably guarantee you a lifelong invitation to all the meals you want.
You bring out the best in me: This one is for couples. Spring it on your significant other when he/she least expects it. The expression on his/her face will be priceless. It will also probably help you get that treat you've been waiting for.
You are gifted: I have noticed that everyone wants people to acknowledge his/her talent and feel that he/she is good at something in life, however small. This particular compliment is probably one of the best received … after the one complimenting the good looks, of course!
You're the man: Another winner for men. Now we know more often than not, this is not a sincere compliment - it's merely a ploy to get us to do some unenjoyable manual labour. However, we will be lying if we say it doesn't make us feel good and ultimately have us moving furniture, cleaning drains ...
I wish I had your kind of (beautiful) hair: If I had a penny for every time I have heard a girl say this to another and then they turn out to be lifelong buddies, I'd be a lot richer. Compliment someone's hair, no matter his/her age, and you'll have the person wrapped around your little finger. This one really works.
Your kid looks just like you: I don't know why this works, but it seems every parent you meet wants to take credit for their child's appearance. Beware though; it may not go down well with the other spouse!
Wow!: I have left this compliment for last as this little word can be used with about anything at anytime and anywhere. So simple but if used sincerely, it has the ability to take you to the top of the charts on people's lists of favourite pals.