What is the difference between `complacent' and `complaisant'?

Let's deal with the pronunciation of the two words first. The `o' in the first syllable is like the `a' in `china'. The same is true of the `e' and `a' in the final syllable of both words. The second syllable in `complacent' is like the word `place', while the second syllable in `complaisant' is pronounced like the word `plays'.

The two words are pronounced `kem-PLAY-sent' and `kem-PLAY-zent'. The stress, in both cases, is on the second syllable.

Complacent means `self satisfied'; when you become complacent about something, you are so pleased with yourself and your abilities that you don't feel the need to put in the extra effort required to make something a success. The word is used to show disapproval.

* After winning two tournaments in a row, he became complacent.

Someone who is `complaisant' is ready to oblige people. His main aim is to please people, and is willing to do whatever they want him to.

* If you are looking for a secretary who will be complaisant, hire Hema.

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