C1adjectiveformalbusiness
US/ˌkɑːm.pləˈmen.tər.i/
UK/ˌkɒm.plɪˈmen.tər.i/
different but useful together, so that each one adds what the other is missing
In context
The two founders have complementary skills: one codes, the other sells.
The bank and the phone company signed a deal because their services are complementary.
Online and in-store sales should be complementary, not in competition.
Words that go with complementary
adjective + noun
- complementary skillsGood teams are built from people with complementary skills.
- complementary rolesTeachers and parents play complementary roles in a child's learning.
- complementary approachA complementary approach combines classes with online practice.
adjective + preposition
- complementary toThe new service is complementary to our existing products.
adverb + adjective
- mutually complementaryThe two plans are mutually complementary.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The hotel offers complementary breakfast.Correct: The hotel offers complimentary breakfast.