complement one another

USAGE SUMMARY

'complement one another' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to indicate that two things work together in a mutually beneficial or aesthetically pleasing way, often in order to make a whole. For example, "The two colors in the painting complement one another and create a beautiful design."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We complement one another.

The Guardian

We strongly complement one another".

The New York Times

These books complement one another.

The Guardian - Books

"I think they complement one another," he said.

The New York Times

They complement one another; they are an artistic unit.

The Guardian - Film

Modularity and gradients may thus coexist, and complement one another.

The New Yorker

The Noyes Museum and the artist perfectly complement one another.

The New York Times

"They are both knowledgeable people who complement one another".

The New York Times

But they complement one another: she obsesses over details, he sees the broad themes.

The New York Times

Architectural elements complement one another, and the tonality and lighting effects are subtle and evocative.

The New York Times

Medications Most chronic pain patients end up taking a cocktail of pills that complement one another.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing how different elements contribute to a unified outcome, use "complement one another" to highlight their synergistic effect.

Common error

Avoid confusing "complement", which means to enhance or complete, with "compliment", which means to praise. Remember that elements "complement one another" to create a better whole.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complement one another" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a relationship of mutual enhancement or completion. It is used to describe how different elements work together to create a more effective or pleasing whole, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complement one another" is a verb phrase used to express that two or more things enhance or complete each other. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business. To ensure clarity, remember to distinguish "complement" from "compliment". When writing, use this phrase to highlight the synergistic relationship between elements that create a unified and effective whole. Alternatives include "work well together" and "mutually enhance each other".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mutually enhance each other

Focuses on the mutual improvement each provides, rather than simple compatibility.

work well together

Emphasizes the effective collaboration and synergy between elements.

harmonize effectively

Highlights the balanced and pleasing interaction between components.

integrate seamlessly

Stresses the smooth and effortless combination of different aspects.

form a cohesive unit

Indicates the creation of a unified whole from separate parts.

create synergy

Highlights the combined effect being greater than the sum of individual parts.

mutually reinforce

Suggests that each element strengthens the other.

act in concert

Emphasizes coordinated action toward a common goal.

dovetail effectively

Emphasizes how well different items or aspects fit together.

correspond harmoniously

Focuses on the balanced and agreeable relationship.

FAQs

How do you use "complement one another" in a sentence?

The phrase "complement one another" indicates that two or more things enhance or complete each other. For example, "The skills of the team members "complement one another", leading to overall success."

What is a good substitute for "complement one another"?

Alternatives to "complement one another" include phrases like "work well together", "mutually enhance each other", or "harmonize effectively" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "complements one another"?

No, the correct phrasing is "complement one another" when referring to multiple entities. "Complements" would be used when a singular subject complements something else.

What's the difference between "complement one another" and "supplement one another"?

"Complement one another" means to enhance or complete each other, whereas "supplement one another" implies adding something extra to improve or complete. They are similar, but "complement one another" suggests a more inherent and essential connection.