20 Things Men Wish Their Wives And Girlfriends Would Say More Often

It’s not just women who like to feel special.

A happy couple dressed in cozy fall clothes smiles at each other while standing outdoors. The man wears a patterned scarf, and the woman wears an orange scarf and coat. Green foliage is blurred in the background.

With the focus usually on making women feel special, we often forget that men like to be complimented too. It’s easy to take your partner for granted and assume he doesn’t need to hear the good things you think about him. But who doesn’t like to be told they are loved and appreciated? If you’ve been less than generous with your praise of late, here are 20 genuine and thoughtful compliments that are sure to make your man feel like the champion he is.

1. “The way you handled that situation was really admirable.”

A couple stands close together outdoors, smiling at each other. The woman, wearing glasses and a scarf, has her hands on the man's shoulders. The man is wearing a brown jacket. The background is softly blurred with warm sunlight.

This one is ideal if he’s kept his cool under difficult circumstances. It’s not always easy so praise his composure in stressful situations.

2. “You are such a great listener, and I truly appreciate that in you.”

A couple sits closely on a yellow couch, both wearing white shirts. The woman leans her head on the man's shoulder, smiling warmly, while holding his arm. Their relaxed and happy demeanor creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Is he able to close his mouth and open his ears? Not all guys can. Use this when he’s been particularly attentive to your or others’ concerns.

3. “I know I can count on you for sound advice in any situation.”

A couple stands outside, smiling at each other with trees in the background. The woman wears a yellow top, and the man wears a denim shirt, with his arm around her shoulders. Both appear happy and relaxed.

Do you go to him for his wisdom when you don’t know what to do? Then acknowledge his problem-solving skills and wisdom.

4. “I’m so proud of how you [insert something he has done to improve himself and his life].”

A smiling elderly man with a white beard sits at a table using a laptop, while a woman with red hair stands behind him, leaning in with one arm on his shoulder. They are in a warmly lit room with a lamp in the background, two mugs, and eyeglasses on the table.

Because he wants to know you are proud of him. This one is perfect for recognizing his efforts at self-improvement, for example if he’s given up smoking or made his business a success.

5. “You’re the most generous person I know.”

A woman with curly hair lovingly kisses a smiling man on the cheek. They are sitting indoors, and the man is wearing a plaid shirt over a gray t-shirt. The mood is warm and affectionate.

Is he a giver in everything he does? Use this when he’s gone out of his way to help someone or shown exceptional kindness.

6. “I love how I can just be myself around you.”

A couple sits closely together on a sandy beach. The woman, wearing a white dress, smiles brightly while looking up at the man, who is in a striped shirt and has his arm around her shoulders. They appear happy and content, surrounded by rippled sand patterns.

When he is fully accepting of everything you are he deserves to be recognized for the comfort and acceptance he provides.

7. “Wow, you did a really great job of [insert something he has done well, e.g. decorating a room, cooking a meal].”

A couple takes a break while renovating, sitting on the floor by a wall. Both are wearing casual clothes and work gloves. The man is offering the woman a drink, and they both look happy and relaxed. Renovation tools and paint supplies are scattered around them.

It’s nice to know that his efforts are appreciated. Use this to show you’ve noticed and value his hard work.

8. “You know how to make a woman feel beautiful.”

A smiling man in a blue shirt sits on a couch next to a woman in a yellow sweater. The man has his arm around her, and they are holding hands. The woman is looking at him with a smile. The background includes a white wall and some decorative shelves.

This is a compliment for a guy who is good at giving compliments. Ideal for acknowledging his ability to boost your confidence.

9. “You treat me with so much care and respect, more than any man I’ve ever met.”

An elderly couple with white hair embraces, their foreheads touching, and they smile warmly at each other. The woman wears a light pink top, and the man is in a blue shirt. The image captures a tender and loving moment between them.

Is he attentive to your every need? If so, tell him! It’s great to acknowledge his considerate behavior in your relationship.

10. “You are so amazing with the kids, you are a great dad.”

A man with a beard smiles warmly as two children hug him from each side. The group is seated in front of a brick wall, wearing casual clothing. The children appear joyful, showcasing a happy, close-knit family moment.

If he’s a father (biological or otherwise), this will mean so very much to him. Use this when you’ve observed his interactions with children.

11. “I love how you try to have a positive influence on everything and everyone around you.”

A man and woman are sitting across from each other at an outdoor café. They are engaged in a lively conversation, smiling. Both have plates of food and glasses of wine in front of them. The woman has a light sweater draped over her shoulders.

Is he always looking for ways to make the world a better place? Ideal for recognizing his efforts to spread positivity.

12. “Thank you for inspiring me.”

A couple relaxes on a bed in a bright hotel room. The room has large windows with a city view, modern decor, and decorative pillows. Natural light fills the space. A suitcase is partially visible near the window.

If he is a role model to you by the things he does. Ideal for recognizing how he motivates you to be better.

13. “Thank you for making such an effort, you really know how to make someone feel loved.”

A woman with blonde hair sits, smiling up at a man wearing a green sweater. He is handing her a wooden breakfast tray with two glasses of orange juice on it. They are indoors with a shelf and some home decor visible in the background.

When he has gone to the ends of the earth to do something nice for you this is the perfect way to show appreciation for his thoughtful gestures.

14. “I’m in awe at how you [insert an impressive physical feat – e.g. ran that marathon, are so skillful with a basketball].”

A couple facing each other smiles warmly against a softly lit outdoor backdrop at sunset. The woman has long brown hair and wears a red coat, while the man has glasses and wears a white scarf. Their expressions convey warmth and affection.

Does he have the strength, endurance, or talent in a physical sense? Use this to recognize his athletic achievements or physical abilities.

15. “I feel so safe with you.”

A woman and a man are sitting closely together, smiling with their foreheads touching. The woman has brown hair and is wearing a blue shirt, while the man has gray hair and is wearing a black sweater. They both appear to be happy and content.

This one is great if he protects you and looks after you and takes pride in that. It acknowledges his protective nature and the security he provides.

16. “You make me feel like I’m on a great big adventure.”

An elderly couple in warm clothing takes a cheerful selfie outdoors. Both are wearing winter hats and scarves, with greenery visible in the background. They are smiling and appear joyful.

When life with him is never boring. Use this to show appreciation for the excitement he brings to your life.

17. “There’s something about you that makes me want to grab you and kiss you.”

A woman playfully holds the end of a man's tie while they smile at each other. Both are wearing white shirts, and they appear to be standing in a light-filled room with modern decor and a potted plant in the background.

If he’s just so magnetic you can use this to express your physical attraction to him.

18. “You make me feel like I can achieve anything.”

A man and a woman sit at a café table, smiling at each other while holding white mugs. The background features a menu board and hanging lights, creating a cozy atmosphere.

When a guy supports you at every possible turn it’s great to recognize his role as your personal cheerleader.

19. “I feel so relaxed around you.”

A couple relaxes on a gray sofa in a modern living room. The woman, with long dark hair, sits upright and embraces the man, who is lying down and holding a tablet. Behind them, a white kitchen and a white shelf with colorful books and potted plants are visible.

When he knows how to help you forget your worries and just chill. This one is perfect for acknowledging his calming presence in your life.

20. “I am so lucky to have you in my life.”

A smiling woman and man sit close together on a couch. The woman, with long dark hair, wears a beige shirt and blue jeans. The man, with short dark hair and a beard, wears a grey polo shirt and blue jeans, holding a laptop. They gaze at each other affectionately.

For the guy who is a huge positive influence on you. Use this as the ultimate compliment to express your gratitude for his presence in your life.