- As a noun, "complement" refers to something that completes or goes well with another, enhancing or perfecting its qualities. As a verb, "complement" means to go well with or enhance the qualities of something else.
- As a noun, "supplement" refers to something added to complete, enhance, or extend, typically to make up for a deficiency. As a verb, "supplement" means to add something extra to complete or enhance.
💊 Taking vitamins can be a good way to supplement your diet and ensure you get essential nutrients.
When to use complement or supplement
The words "complement" and "supplement" have different meanings and uses, so choosing the right one depends on the context. Here's a breakdown:
When to use "Complement":
Use "complement" as a noun when describing something that enhances or completes another element. Use it as a verb when describing the action of enhancing or going well with something else. Despite the fact that these words look similar, both forms of "complement" specifically imply a positive pairing or enhancement.
When to use "Supplement":
Use "supplement" as a noun when referring to something added to make up for a deficiency or to enhance further. Use it as a verb when describing the action of adding something extra to complete or enhance. Despite the fact that these words look similar, both forms of "supplement" imply an addition to compensate for a lack or to enhance further.
Here's a helpful trick to remember
- Complement: Think of a couple who get along really well with one another, which starts with a "c", like complement.
- Supplement: Think of a side dish which makes your meal more nutritionally complete, which starts with an "s", just like supplement.
"Complement" implies a positive pairing or something that goes well with something else, while "supplement" is used to describe something that adds to make up for a deficiency or to make better. Practice distinguishing their roles in sentences to ensure accurate usage in different contexts.
Example sentences
Complement:
- The rich flavor of the red wine was a perfect complement to the savory steak.
- Her creativity and his analytical skills formed a complementary team dynamic.
- The soft throw pillows were chosen to complement the bold colors of the couch.
- The museum's modern architecture is designed to complement the surrounding historic buildings.
- A good sauce can complement the natural flavors of fresh vegetables.
Supplement:
- Dietary supplements can provide additional vitamins and minerals that may be lacking in your regular diet.
- The grant money was used to supplement the existing budget for the research project.
- A morning jog can supplement your fitness routine and help improve cardiovascular health.
- Reading books can supplement classroom learning by providing additional insights and perspectives.
- The company decided to supplement its product line by introducing new and innovative features.
Examples from the web
Complement
"This chicken dish is complemented by punchy black pepper." - The New York Times - Recipes
"Complement, not compete." - The Guardian
Supplement
"Should I be taking supplements?" - The New York Times
"Collagen is being marketed by the supplement industry." - The Guardian
Usage of Complement or Supplement
The Ngram graph below shows how often "complement" and "supplement" have been used from the 1800s to the 2000s. Both "complement" and "supplement" have been used steadily through time, increasing in use until both peaking in the 1980s.
FAQ
Is it complement or compliment?
Despite the fact that these words look similar, they have different meanings. "Complement" is related to completion or enhancement, while "compliment" involves expressions of praise or admiration.
What are complementary colors?
Complementary colors are pairs of colors that, when combined, create a neutral color (such as white or gray) or a grayscale representation of light. These pairs are opposite each other on the color wheel.
Summary
So, there you have it! With this knowledge, you'll never confuse "complement" and "supplement" again. Go forth and use them confidently in your writing and speech!
Want to sound like a native speaker?
Engram’s AI-powered grammar checker makes your English sound like a native speaker’s, suggesting natural English expressions on top of fixing grammar, spelling, punctuation, word order, and vocabulary.
References:
Share Article
