ENGLISH
REFERENCE

complements

n. plural-only
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈkɑmpɫəmənts// UK //kˈɒmplɪmənts// com·ple·ments

n. things that go well together or make each other better. You use this when two items improve each other's quality or complete a set.

n. items or elements that mutually improve, enhance, or complete one another. Often refers to things that work together to form a balanced or successful whole.


SIMPLE

The red wine complements the steak perfectly.

CONTEXTUAL

The new curtains are great complements to the existing furniture in the living room.

COMPLEX

In economic theory, goods are considered complements if an increase in the price of one leads to a decrease in the demand for the other, such as printers and ink cartridges.

Synonyms
Usage

Often used in the plural form to describe a pair or group of items; frequently followed by the preposition 'to'.

Pitfall

The wine is a nice compliments to the mealThe wine is a nice complements to the mealLearners frequently confuse 'complement' (to complete or improve) with 'compliment' (to praise).

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