complementary to one another

USAGE SUMMARY

'complementary to one another' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to two things that are very different, but that also go together to form a larger whole. For example, you might write, "The two approaches to marketing were complementary to one another, giving the company a well-rounded strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Consequently, it is possible that the pro-tumorigenic activities of the inflammatory cytokines and of the inflammatory chemokines depend on each other, and/or are complementary to one another.

BMC Cancer

This general model suggests that the roles of nicotinic and muscarinic receptors in OB are both distinct and complementary to one another, together regulating the effects of ascending cholinergic inputs on olfactory bulb transformations.

Yale University

Interestingly, the color evoking the on response and that evoking the off response are complementary to one another.

Cerebral Cortex

Reliance on others and self-reliance are not only compatible but complementary to one another.

Springer

The programs discussed are synergistic and complementary to one another, and, moreover, promote interdisciplinary collaborations among researchers, engineers, and clinicians.

Journal of Neuroscience Methods

Two of the three is simply not sufficient whether they are versus or complementary to one another.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

The services, he said, "are complementary to one of the main motivations adults have in giving children cellphones — to get in touch with them in an emergency".

The New York Times - Tech

The building is now covered in scaffolding as the facade is cleaned and stonework repaired, a project complementary to one almost completed at the Frick Collection itself, where work was undertaken earlier this year.

The New York Times

Each primer contained a specific tag at its 5'-end complementary to one of the 48 spotted oligonucleotides.

BMC Genomics

In its natural habitat in the nucleus of a cell, DNA consists of long chain molecules that are complementary, attaching to one another like a string of Lego blocks over their entire length to form the famous double helix.

Cornell University

DNA strands designed with complementary sequences of bases will bind to one another to form Y-shaped structures that can be extended to form "dendrimerlike" (i.e., treelike) forms.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complementary to one another", ensure that the relationship you are describing is truly one of mutual benefit, not just coexistence.

Common error

Avoid using "complementary to one another" when the elements being described are merely similar or related, but do not actively enhance or complete each other. Complementarity implies a specific, beneficial interaction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complementary to one another" functions as an adjective phrase, describing the relationship between two or more entities. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is considered correct and usable in English, serving to highlight how different elements enhance each other when combined.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complementary to one another" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase, as verified by Ludwig. It aptly describes elements that enhance each other upon combination. Predominantly found in scientific and academic contexts, as showcased by Ludwig's examples, it conveys a formal tone. Remembering to use it when a true mutual benefit exists is key, differentiating it from mere similarity. Considering alternatives like "mutually reinforcing" can refine the expression further. When writing, ensure the elements genuinely enhance each other for accurate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mutually reinforcing

Highlights the strengthening effect each element has on the other.

harmoniously combined

Emphasizes the pleasing or effective arrangement of elements.

synergistic

Focuses on the enhanced effect achieved through combined action.

mutually supportive

Stresses the aspect of providing assistance or encouragement to each other.

interdependent

Highlights the reliance each element has on the others.

well-matched

Suggests a high degree of compatibility or suitability.

integrated effectively

Emphasizes the successful combination of different elements.

go hand in hand

Indicates a close and inseparable connection or association.

work in tandem

Suggests a coordinated and cooperative effort.

correlate positively

Focuses on the statistical relationship where an increase in one leads to an increase in the other.

FAQs

How can I use "complementary to one another" in a sentence?

You can use "complementary to one another" to describe things that enhance each other, like "The two strategies were "complementary to one another", resulting in a successful campaign."

What's a simple way to explain what "complementary to one another" means?

It means that two or more things enhance or complete each other. They work well together to create a better outcome than they would individually. Think of puzzle pieces fitting together perfectly.

Which is correct, "complementary to each other" or "complementary to one another"?

"Complementary to one another" and "complementary to each other" are both grammatically correct and often interchangeable. However, "complementary to one another" emphasizes a reciprocal relationship within a group.

What are some phrases similar to "complementary to one another"?

Alternatives include "mutually reinforcing", "synergistic", or "mutually supportive", depending on the nuance you want to convey.