a complementary letter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complementary letter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a letter that enhances or completes another letter, often in a context of correspondence or communication. Example: "I have written a complementary letter to accompany my application, highlighting my qualifications and experiences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Each time it comes to a new chemical letter on the strand it is reading, it reconfigures itself to add a complementary letter to the RNA molecule it is creating.Dr Kornberg worked out the details by crystallising the complex of DNA, RNA and polymerase at various stages of the process.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

These letters, a complementary masterpiece, explain what comes next.

The New Yorker

Genes with a complementary mode of action were indicated using the letter 'c' after the name of the gene (e.g. Co-2c N-C ).

BMC Plant Biology

The letter included information detailing the intent of the study, as well as a complementary follow-up medical assessment and a form for the participant to provide informed consent.

BMJ Open

They're a complementary pair.

The Guardian

They are a complementary partnership.

The Guardian

They make a complementary pair.

Independent

Guards Juan Dixon and Steve Blake provide a complementary backcourt.

The New York Times - Sports

Phyllida Barlow, Steven Claydon and David Medalla provide a complementary accompaniment.

The Guardian - Arts

And here's a complementary story, from January 18 , 1988

The New Yorker

"Do you have a complementary system?" "No".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a complementary letter", ensure it genuinely adds value or completes the information in the primary document or communication. Avoid redundancy.

Common error

A common mistake is using "complimentary" (expressing praise or given free) instead of "complementary" (completing or enhancing). Always double-check you're using the correct word based on your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complementary letter" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "complementary" modifies the noun "letter". It specifies the type of letter being referred to, indicating that it serves to complete or enhance something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a complementary letter" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to describe a letter that adds to or completes another document or communication, according to Ludwig AI. Although its usage is relatively rare, the term appears in a variety of contexts, including news media, science, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, be mindful of the distinction between "complementary" and "complimentary" to ensure accuracy. Alternatives such as "an accompanying letter" or "a supporting letter" may also be suitable depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an accompanying letter

Focuses on the letter being sent together with something else.

a supplementary letter

Highlights the additional and supportive nature of the letter.

a supporting letter

Emphasizes the letter's role in providing support or endorsement.

an addendum letter

Implies that the letter serves as an addition to a previous communication.

a follow-up letter

Suggests the letter is sent after a previous interaction to provide further details.

a cover letter

Specifically refers to a letter introducing a document, like a resume.

a letter of elaboration

Highlights that the letter contains more details and clarifies aspects from the previous letter.

a letter in addition

Directly states that the letter is an extra component to an existing message.

a companion letter

Indicates that the letter serves as a peer to another letter, but also it can have a different scope.

a descriptive letter

Signifies the purpose of the letter is to give details on something.

FAQs

What does "a complementary letter" mean?

The phrase "a complementary letter" refers to a letter that enhances, completes, or supports the information provided in another document or initial communication.

How is "a complementary letter" different from a cover letter?

While a cover letter is also an accompanying document, it specifically introduces a resume or application. "A complementary letter" is a broader term that can apply to any letter that adds to existing information, not just job applications.

What can I use instead of "a complementary letter"?

Depending on the context, you could use "an accompanying letter", "a supplementary letter", or "a supporting letter" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to write "a complementary letter"?

It's appropriate when you need to provide additional details, clarification, or support related to a previous communication or document. For instance, you might send "a complementary letter" to elaborate on points made in a proposal.