Compliment
A position where partners exchange sweet words.
About This Position
Both partners lie face to face, close enough to whisper, while the penetrating partner enters gently. This position is about verbal intimacy — exchanging compliments, dirty talk, and sweet nothings while maintaining eye contact.
Best For
Anatomy & Physiology
Muscle Groups Involved
- Glutes
- Hip flexors
- Core
- Inner thighs
Angle of Penetration
Shallow, focused on external stimulation
Targeted Pleasure Zones
Body Contact Points
Step-by-Step Guide
Both partners lie face to face, close enough to whisper. The receiving partner lies on their back; the penetrating partner lies on top or beside them. The proximity is essential — lips should be inches apart for whispering.
The penetrating partner enters gently and shallowly — this position is about verbal intimacy, not deep penetration. The shallow entry allows both partners to focus on words and connection rather than physical intensity.
Maintain continuous eye contact while speaking — whisper compliments, desires, or sweet nothings directly into each other's ears. The verbal exchange is the primary stimulation; the physical joining is the secondary.
Move slowly and minimally — the focus should stay on the verbal connection. Large physical movements distract from the conversation. Small, gentle rocking maintains the physical connection while words flow.
Take turns speaking — one partner whispers while the other listens, then switch. The exchange should feel like a conversation, not a monologue. Listening is as important as speaking.
Build physical intensity gradually in parallel with the verbal intensity — as the words become more passionate, the movement can increase slightly. The verbal and physical should crescendo together.
Safety & Precautions
Warnings
- ! Communicate with your partner about comfort throughout.
Modifications
- * Use pillows for support and comfort.
- * Adjust the angle or depth based on your partner's feedback.
Generally safe during pregnancy — adjust depth and pace for comfort.
Medical References & Sources
The information on this page has been reviewed for accuracy by certified health professionals. The following peer-reviewed and authoritative sources were used in developing this guide:
- • Mayo Clinic — Sexual Health
- • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) — Sexual Health
- • National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
- • Cleveland Clinic — Sexual Health
- • Healthline — Healthy Sex & Relationships
Health Disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare professional before trying new positions, especially if you have back pain, joint issues, are pregnant, or have any medical condition. Stop immediately if you experience pain.
Pros
- + Enhances verbal connection
- + Great for eye contact
- + Very intimate and personal
Cons
- - Very shallow penetration
- - May not lead to orgasm easily
Tips
- * Whisper compliments and desires to your partner
- * Maintain eye contact while speaking
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the right technique, small errors can reduce pleasure or increase injury risk. Here are the most common mistakes couples make with the Compliment position:
Focusing only on physical pleasure
The Compliment position is designed for verbal intimacy as the primary stimulation. If both partners focus only on physical sensations, this becomes a standard shallow-penetration position. The words ARE the position.
Not maintaining eye contact while speaking
The intimacy of the Compliment comes from looking into each other's eyes while sharing vulnerable words. Looking away, closing eyes, or staring at the ceiling breaks the intimate connection that makes the verbal exchange meaningful.
Speaking too loudly
The Compliment is about whispering, not shouting. Soft, intimate words create a private world for just the two partners. Loud, performative dirty talk breaks the gentle, intimate atmosphere.
Forgetting to listen
The verbal exchange requires both speaking AND listening. If one partner only talks without listening to their partner's words, the connection becomes one-sided. Active listening — responding to what was said, building on it — creates the true intimacy.
Variations to Try
Once you've mastered the basic Compliment, these variations can add new sensations and keep things exciting:
Add a Pillow
Place a pillow under the receiving partner's hips to change the angle of penetration and enhance stimulation.
Incorporate Manual Stimulation
Use hands to add clitoral or other external stimulation during the position for enhanced pleasure.
Slow Down the Pace
Switch from thrusting to grinding for a more intimate, sensation-focused experience.
Try Different Surfaces
Move from the bed to a couch, standing, or against a wall for different angles and experiences.
Related Positions
Missionary
Face-to-face intimacy with deep emotional connection.
Cowgirl
Take control and set the pace with this empowering position.
Sixty-Nine
Simultaneous oral pleasure in this classic position.
Spooning
Cuddle close with this gentle, sensual side position.
Scissor
Intertwined legs create a tight, sensations-rich position.
CAT
Coital Alignment Technique for enhanced clitoral stimulation.
Written by Dr. Sarah Mitchell
Certified Sex Therapist, PhD in Human Sexuality
Reviewed by Dr. James Chen
Board-Certified OB/GYN, 15+ Years Experience
Last reviewed: July 2026 | Content medically verified | Meet our full team
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