a good complement to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a good complement to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe something that works well with something else, or enhances it. For example, "Grilled vegetables are a good complement to any summer meal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a good complement to the book.

The Guardian - Books

This is a good complement to the Michaux exhibition at the Drawing Center through Wednesday.

The New York Times - Arts

We're trying to be a good complement to the defense community".

The New York Times - Tech

This is a good complement to the Michaux exhibition at the Drawing Center (through Dec. 20).

The New York Times - Arts

It's a good complement to the other stuff we do as football players".

The New York Times - Sports

Perma-Fix executives say this is a good complement to the G.E. system.

The New York Times - Science

Headline; 304 pages; £6.99The cricket fan's other essential book and a good complement to "Wisden".

The Economist

Mitchell Friedman, who has mastered a black-and-white idiom, is a good complement to Ms. Chernow.

The New York Times

He's got a competitive defensive mentality, which I think is a good complement to Allan and Latrell.

The New York Times - Sports

This is a good complement to Michaux exhibitions at the Drawing Center (through Dec. 20) and Michael Werner (through tomorrow).

The New York Times - Arts

"Its broad inspirational appeal is a good complement to Zondervan, which will continue to publish books consistent with its mission".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a good complement to", ensure that the items being related share a logical connection. This strengthens the sentence and avoids awkward phrasing.

Common error

Avoid confusing "complement" (something that completes or enhances) with "compliment" (a polite expression of praise). For example, say "The wine is a good complement to the cheese", not "The wine is a good compliment to the cheese".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a good complement to" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used adjectivally to describe the relationship between two entities, indicating that one enhances or completes the other. As Ludwig AI notes, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a good complement to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe something that enhances or completes something else. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It's applicable across various contexts, with the highest frequency in news and media, science, and formal business settings. Remember to use "complement" (enhances) and not "compliment" (praise). Consider alternative phrases such as "a fine addition to" or "a perfect match for" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fine addition to

Highlights the act of adding something positive, shifting focus from mere compatibility.

a fitting accompaniment to

Emphasizes the harmonious relationship, implying elegance and appropriateness.

an ideal supplement to

Suggests something that completes or enhances by providing what is lacking.

a valuable asset to

Stresses the usefulness and worth of the addition.

a synergistic element with

Highlights the combined effect being greater than the sum of their separate effects.

a perfect match for

Focuses on the compatibility and suitability of the two elements.

an excellent adjunct to

Implies a subordinate or auxiliary role, but still a helpful addition.

a strong support for

Emphasizes the backing or reinforcement provided.

well-suited alongside

Highlights the compatibility and harmonious coexistence.

integrates seamlessly with

Stresses the smooth and effortless combination of elements.

FAQs

How can I use "a good complement to" in a sentence?

You can use "a good complement to" to describe something that enhances or completes another thing. For instance, "This sauce is "a good complement to" the main dish".

What's the difference between "a good complement to" and "a good supplement to"?

"A good complement to" means something enhances or completes something else, while "a good supplement to" indicates something that provides additional elements or enhances nutritional value.

What are some alternatives to using "a good complement to"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a fine addition to", "a perfect match for", or "a fitting accompaniment to", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say something 'complements' something else?

Yes, the verb form "complements" is correct. For example, "The scarf complements her dress". This means it enhances or completes her look.