complementary
What does "complementary" mean?
The word "complementary" describes things that combine in a way that enhances or completes one another. Think of two puzzle pieces that fit perfectly together, or the way a specific wine might elevate the flavors of a particular cheese; it isn't about being identical, but about filling the gaps to create a more balanced or effective whole. In usage, it is most often found in professional or academic contexts, such as describing business strategies, color palettes in design, or health treatments. Be careful not to confuse it with "complimentary," which refers to praise or something given for free; "complementary" is strictly about the concept of completion and mutual improvement.
"complementary" in conversation
Design meeting
I think we should use navy blue for the walls.
I think we should use navy blue for the walls.
That sounds great, especially with the orange accents—they're perfectly complementary.
That sounds great, especially with the orange accents—they're perfectly complementary.
Used here to describe aesthetic balance.
Business strategy
Our new software is designed to be complementary to our existing cloud services.
Our new software is designed to be complementary to our existing cloud services.
Exactly, it fills the functional gaps our clients were complaining about.
Exactly, it fills the functional gaps our clients were complaining about.
Used to describe how two products work together to increase value.
"complementary" in a sentence
The two colors are complementary.
The two colors are complementary.
They have complementary skill sets that make them a strong team.
They have complementary skill sets that make them a strong team.
The study highlights the complementary roles of diet and exercise in long-term health.
The study highlights the complementary roles of diet and exercise in long-term health.
