can be complements

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be complements" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing elements that enhance or complete each other in various contexts, such as in grammar, mathematics, or design. Example: "In this sentence, the adjectives can be complements to the noun, providing additional information."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Because each of the agent's multitasks can have several measures, the multitask agency theory predicts that incentive devices based on these measures can be complements or substitutes.

Journal of Comparative Economics

By juxtaposing these two conceptual frames, we unearth the conditions under which they can be complements for managing the tension between efficiency and effectiveness central to these projects.

Research Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Just as in physical health, expert care can be complemented by individual action.

The Guardian

"The fiscal compact can be complemented by growth-enhancing measures," he added.

The New York Times

This can be complemented by changes in the workforce, with teams communicating using channels such as LinkedIn.

The Guardian

A large lounge in front and a long bar nearby provide comfortable perches for tasting expeditions, which can be complemented with small plates — fingerling potatoes with paddlefish caviar; lamb terrine with lotus crisps — from a special menu.

The New York Times - Food

MMP analysis can be complemented by other interpretation techniques.

Journal of Cheminformatics

The growth defect of ΔscrB can be complemented by plasmid-based expression of scrB complemented.

AMB Express

This option can be complemented with a more deliberative approach, restorative justice.

Accounting, Organizations and Society

The theorem proved in the preceding section can be complemented by the following natural observation.

Boundary Value Problems

These mean values can be complemented by bounds using second moments.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be complements" to clearly indicate that two or more elements enhance or complete each other. This phrase is best used in contexts where the combined effect is more desirable or effective than the individual contributions.

Common error

Avoid using "can be complements" when "can be supplements" is more appropriate. "Complements" implies mutual enhancement, while "supplements" suggests that one element fills a deficiency in another. Be precise in choosing the correct word to accurately reflect the relationship between the elements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be complements" functions as a predicate adjective phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it describes the relationship between two or more entities, indicating that they enhance or complete each other, creating a more effective or desirable outcome. The examples provided illustrate this relationship in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

17%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be complements" is used to express that two or more elements enhance each other, creating a synergistic effect. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for professional or academic contexts. While examples are somewhat limited, the phrase appears most frequently in scientific discussions. To ensure clarity, differentiate "can be complements" from "can be supplements", using the former when elements mutually enhance each other and the latter when one element fills a gap in another. By avoiding common errors and understanding its intended use, you can effectively employ this phrase in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can enhance each other

Focuses more directly on the action of enhancement between elements.

can supplement one another

Emphasizes the idea of filling gaps or adding to what is lacking.

can mutually reinforce

Highlights the idea of strengthening each other's effects.

can work well together

A more general phrase indicating compatibility and harmonious interaction.

can integrate seamlessly

Suggests a smooth and effortless combination.

can create synergy

Implies that the combined effect is greater than the sum of individual effects.

can form a cohesive unit

Focuses on the formation of a unified whole.

can exist in harmony

Highlights the peaceful and balanced coexistence of elements.

can mesh effectively

Suggests that the elements fit together in a functional way.

can be mutually beneficial

Emphasizes the reciprocal advantages of the combination.

FAQs

How can I use "can be complements" in a sentence?

Use "can be complements" to describe two or more things that enhance or complete each other. For example, "In a well-designed team, different skill sets "can be complements", leading to greater overall effectiveness."

What's the difference between "can be complements" and "can be supplements"?

"Can be complements" suggests a mutual enhancement where each element enhances the other. "Can be supplements" implies that one element fills a deficiency in the other, like adding missing vitamins to your diet.

Are there situations where "can be complements" would not be appropriate?

Yes, if the elements in question do not enhance each other, or if one simply replaces or substitutes for the other, then "can be complements" is not the right fit. If items are interchangeable then it's wrong, rather they should "work well together".

What can I say instead of ""can be complements""?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "enhance each other", "mutually reinforce", or "work well together".