complement
Definitions
Something that completes another thing or makes it perfect by adding what is lacking
补充物，配套之物（使其完整）
The full number or quantity needed to make something complete
（达到完整所需的）全数，足额
To add to something in a way that improves it or makes it complete
补充，与……相配，使完整
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedcom- (fully) + ple (fill) + -ment (noun/result) = 'that which fills up to completion.' A complement is the piece that fills the gap so the whole is finished — the wine that completes the meal, the staff that bring a ship to full crew. As a verb, to complement is to be that filling-out part. Note the spelling: comPLEment (fill, ple) ≠ comPLIment (praise).
Root ple still carries 42 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.the perfect complement to……的绝佳补充
- 2.complement each other相互补充，相得益彰
- 3.full complement全额，满员
Example Sentences
- 1.
A crisp white wine is the perfect complement to fish.
- 2.
The ship sailed with its full complement of crew.
- 3.
Her calm style complements his energy on stage.
Easily Confused
complement vs compliment — they sound identical but are unrelated. complement (from ple, 'fill') means something that completes: the scarf complements the coat. compliment means a remark of praise: he paid her a compliment. Memory hook: complEment complEtes; complIment is what you say to be polItE.