complement each other

USAGE SUMMARY

"complement each other" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to two people, ideas, or things that are related in some way and work together to form a complete whole. For example, "His skills in coding and my knowledge of design complement each other, making us an ideal team for a web development project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"They complement each other.

The New York Times - Magazine

We complement each other.

The New York Times - Arts

"We complement each other greatly.

The New York Times

They will complement each other".

The New York Times - Tech

Second, intangibles complement each other.

Harvard Business Review

A: We complement each other.

The Washington Post

How do you complement each other?

The New York Times - Arts

Men and women "complement" each other.

The Economist

These facilities complement each other.

Advances in Space Research

"They complement each other really well.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Wear colours that contrast/complement each other.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing how two elements work well together, use "complement each other" to emphasize mutual enhancement rather than mere compatibility. This suggests a dynamic interaction where each element improves the other.

Common error

Avoid confusing "complement each other" with "compliment each other". "Complement" means to enhance or complete, while "compliment" means to praise. For example, say 'Their skills complement each other, making them a strong team', not 'Their skills compliment each other'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complement each other" functions as a reciprocal verb phrase, indicating a relationship where two or more entities enhance or complete each other. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage in various contexts, as demonstrated by the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Science & Research

3%

The Guardian - Music

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complement each other" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe a mutually enhancing relationship between two or more entities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It's particularly prevalent in News & Media and Science contexts. Remembering to use "complement" instead of the homophone "compliment" is key. Alternatives include "mutually enhance each other" and "harmonize well together". By understanding its function, purpose, and common usage patterns, writers can effectively employ this phrase to add depth and precision to their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mutually enhance each other

Emphasizes the reciprocal improvement that each entity brings to the other.

complete one another

Indicates that each subject fills what is lacking in the other, creating a whole.

harmonize well together

Highlights the balanced and pleasing relationship between the subjects.

supplement each other

Suggests that each compensates for the deficiencies of the other.

work well in tandem

Focuses on the coordinated and effective action of both entities.

collaborate successfully

Highlights their successful teamwork.

synergize effectively

Stresses the creation of a combined effect that is greater than the sum of their separate effects.

combine effectively

Focuses on the positive outcome of their combination.

mesh seamlessly

Implies a smooth and effortless integration between the subjects.

are a good fit

Highlights compatibility and suitability.

FAQs

How can I use "complement each other" in a sentence?

Use "complement each other" to describe how two or more things enhance each other when combined. For example, "The design and functionality of the app "complement each other" perfectly, creating a user-friendly experience".

What's the difference between "complement each other" and "supplement each other"?

"Complement each other" suggests that two things enhance or complete each other, creating a better whole. "Supplement each other" implies that one thing fills in the gaps or deficiencies of the other. So, skills might "complement each other", while a lack of resources might be "supplemented each other".

What are some alternatives to saying "complement each other"?

You can use alternatives such as "mutually enhance each other", "harmonize well together", or "synergize effectively" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "complements each other"?

No, "complements each other" is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrasing is "complement each other". The verb "complement" is used in its base form when referring to a reciprocal action between two or more entities.