complementary
Definitions
Combining well with something else so that each makes the other complete.
互补的（彼此配合而成整体的）。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom complement (com- 'fully' + ple 'fill' = 'to fill out, make whole'). Things that are complementary each supply what the other lacks, together completing a whole — complementary colours fill out the spectrum, complementary skills round out a team. Note the spelling: complementary (completes) is not complimentary (free / praising).
Root ple still carries 42 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.complementary colours互补色
- 2.complementary skills互补技能
- 3.complementary roles互补的角色
Example Sentences
- 1.
The two managers have very complementary skills.
- 2.
Blue and orange are complementary colours.
- 3.
The treatments work in a complementary way.
Easily Confused
complementary vs complimentary — complementary (with an e) means completing each other; complimentary (with an i) means either 'free of charge' (a complimentary drink) or 'praising' (complimentary remarks). Same root long ago, opposite spelling trap now.