a complete meal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complete meal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a meal that includes all necessary components, such as protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, providing a balanced diet. Example: "For dinner, I prepared a complete meal with grilled chicken, steamed broccoli, and quinoa."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

How would you turn it into a complete meal?

The New York Times

To make a complete meal, a chicken fillet can be put on top.

The New York Times - Food

She definitely doesn't think it's a requisite part of a complete meal.

The New Yorker

"We think you can protect your heart by drinking daily with a complete meal.

The New York Times - Health

A complete meal is $26.95 a person with roast turkey breast with mole or gravy, $27.95 with brisket.

The New York Times - Food

A complete meal, including a raki aperitif, is $22 a person, a bottle of Turkish wine, about $10.

The New York Times - Travel

Tim Anderson, Nanban A Spanish classic, ideal for using up an old loaf for a complete meal.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I would often get up twice in the middle of the night and have a complete meal," she said.

The New York Times - Health

Another classic appetizer was nearly a complete meal: kalbsrahmbeuscherl, a rich stew of cream, calf heart and lungs.

The New York Times - Travel

These dishes will all work together as a complete meal, or try mixing and matching just a few.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Make it a complete meal by starting with the Aum Aum pasta, prepared simply with tomatoes and eggplant (4 euros).

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for healthier eating, plan your meals ahead of time to ensure you are creating "a complete meal" that incorporates all essential nutrients.

Common error

Avoid equating "a complete meal" solely with the quantity of food. Focus on nutritional balance rather than just filling your plate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complete meal" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English. Examples in Ludwig illustrate its role in various sentence structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a complete meal" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a meal that provides a balanced and sufficient intake of nutrients. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English writing. While often associated with quantity, it emphasizes nutritional completeness, making it distinct from merely "a full meal". It appears frequently in News & Media, Scientific articles, and Formal & Business documents, reflecting its relevance across various contexts. When aiming for balanced nutrition, it is important to incorporate all essential nutrients to make it "a complete meal".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a full meal

Emphasizes the quantity and satisfying nature of the meal.

a balanced meal

Highlights the nutritional aspect of having a proper proportion of different food groups.

a square meal

Implies a substantial and nourishing meal, often used in a more traditional or old-fashioned context.

a wholesome meal

Stresses the healthiness and nutritional benefits of the meal.

a substantial meal

Focuses on the quantity and filling nature of the meal.

a satisfying meal

Highlights the feeling of contentment and fulfillment after eating the meal.

a nutritious meal

Specifically refers to the meal's high nutritional value.

a well-rounded meal

Similar to a balanced meal, emphasizing the inclusion of various food groups.

a hearty meal

Suggests a warm, filling, and satisfying meal, often associated with comfort foods.

a complete nutritional intake

Focuses on the scientific and health related aspect of nutrition

FAQs

What constitutes "a complete meal" nutritionally?

Nutritionally, "a complete meal" typically includes a balance of macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). The specific proportions depend on individual dietary needs and goals.

How can I make /s/a+quick+snack a complete meal?

To transform "a quick snack" into "a complete meal", add elements from other food groups. For example, add protein and healthy fats to a fruit snack, or vegetables and protein to a carbohydrate-rich snack.

What's the difference between "a full meal" and "a complete meal"?

While both phrases refer to a substantial serving of food, "a full meal" emphasizes quantity, while "a complete meal" stresses the nutritional balance and inclusion of all essential food groups. You can use "a full meal" when you eat a lot, even junk food.

Is it always necessary to have "a complete meal" at every sitting?

While aiming for balanced nutrition is important, it's not always necessary to have "a complete meal" at every sitting. You can distribute your nutrient intake throughout the day with smaller, strategically planned snacks and meals.