complemented by

USAGE SUMMARY

"complemented by" is a perfectly valid phrase in written English.
It is used to describe one thing that serves to enhance the effect of something else, or the fact that something has been added to make something else better. For example: The dish was delicious on its own, but was complemented by the subtle flavor of the herbs.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

They are complemented by BMW's Air Curtain.

The New York Times

Some clever ideas complemented by solid gameplay.

The Guardian - Tech

His drawings were often complemented by amusing quotations.

The Guardian

It was complemented by hyssop oil and almond oil.

The New York Times - Food

All this was nicely complemented by delicate peach sorbet.

The New York Times - Travel

A neat idea, complemented by some characterful visuals.

The Guardian - Tech

This is complemented by training in marketing and business planning.

The Guardian

This is complemented by a separate Observer Sports Service.

The Guardian

This climax was complemented by a formal intercultural conclusion.

The New York Times - Arts

The music is complemented by a video environment.

The New York Times - Arts

Sea-bound classes will be complemented by onshore activities.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complemented by", ensure that the added element genuinely enhances the primary subject, creating a synergistic effect rather than merely being an unrelated addition.

Common error

Avoid using "complemented by" to connect elements that do not logically enhance or add value to the original subject. Ensure the complement is relevant and contributes meaningfully.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complemented by" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating that something is being enhanced or completed by the addition of something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction is common and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complemented by" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate that one element enhances or completes another. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse contexts, from science and news to encyclopedias. Best practices involve ensuring the complement genuinely adds value, while common errors include using it redundantly. Alternatives like "enhanced by" or "supplemented by" can offer nuanced variations. This guide, informed by numerous examples and insights, aims to help writers effectively use "complemented by" in their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enhanced by

Focuses on the improvement aspect, suggesting that something is made better by the addition.

supplemented by

Emphasizes the idea of adding something to make it complete or more effective.

supported by

Highlights the idea of providing assistance or backing to something.

reinforced by

Indicates that something is strengthened or made more robust through the addition.

accompanied by

Focuses on the idea of something being together with something else.

improved with

Highlights the enhancement or betterment achieved through the addition.

augmented by

Indicates an increase in size or value through the addition of something.

backed up by

Emphasizes the support and validation provided by something else.

fortified by

Suggests a strengthening or defense through the addition of something.

balanced with

Focuses on creating equilibrium or harmony through the addition.

FAQs

How can I use "complemented by" in a sentence?

Use "complemented by" to show how one thing enhances or completes another. For example, "The delicious meal was "complemented by" the stunning view".

What are some alternatives to "complemented by"?

You can use alternatives like "enhanced by", "supplemented by", or "supported by" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Each carries a slightly different emphasis on the type of addition or support.

Is there a difference between "complemented by" and "supplemented by"?

"Complemented by" suggests an enhancement or improvement, while "supplemented by" implies adding something to make it complete. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing enhancement or completeness.

When is it appropriate to use "complemented by" in writing?

Use "complemented by" when you want to highlight that an element improves, enhances, or adds a positive quality to something else. It's useful in both formal and informal contexts to describe beneficial additions.