B1nounlanguagefood
US/ˈkɑːm.plə.mənt/
UK/ˈkɒm.plɪ.mənt/
something that goes well with another thing and makes it better or complete
In context
A glass of iced tea is the perfect complement to spicy food.
Online lessons are a useful complement to classes, not a replacement.
Her calm style is a good complement to her partner's energy.
Words that go with complement
noun + preposition
- complement toThe sauce is a nice complement to grilled fish.
adjective + noun
- perfect complementThis scarf is the perfect complement to your coat.
- useful complementPodcasts are a useful complement to reading.
- natural complementTourism is a natural complement to local farming.
- full complementThe team now has a full complement of staff.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Thank you for the complement on my dress.Correct: Thank you for the compliment on my dress.