complete in itself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complete in itself" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a grammatical unit within a sentence that has a subject, verb, and object, and can stand alone as a coherent thought or idea. Example: "The subclause, 'which was hidden in the attic,' is complete in itself and provides important information about the protagonist's past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

According to American literary historian Mary Ann Caws, Tzara's poems may be seen as having an "internal order", and read as "a simple spectacle, as creation complete in itself and completely obvious".

Wikipedia

Her work is complete in itself.

The Guardian - Opinion

With Borges, each story is complete in itself.

The Guardian - Books

The word is from the Greek autotelḗs, "complete in itself".

Encyclopedia Britannica

"A Time of Change," the second section of "In the Borders," was complete in itself.

The New York Times

A letter, though it may enjoin a response, is meant to be complete in itself.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

However, completing the recapitalisation will in itself help to restore confidence.

The Economist

A single cell is often a complete organism in itself, such as a bacterium or yeast.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Each of Omar's quatrains forms a complete poem in itself.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The problem is that it is also complete enough in itself that the play has nowhere to go (2 15).

The New York Times

Yes, a perfume is complete design in itself, like a classic car, but I wanted to peer under the bonnet.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "complete in itself" to describe entities or concepts that possess all necessary components and do not rely on external dependencies for their meaning or function.

Common error

Avoid using "complete in itself" when describing something that is merely finished or finalized. The phrase implies a deeper sense of self-sufficiency and inherent wholeness, not just the absence of remaining tasks.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complete in itself" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that the noun is self-sufficient and requires nothing else for its integrity or understanding. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its versatility across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

24%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complete in itself" effectively conveys that an entity possesses all necessary components and doesn't rely on external factors for its integrity or meaning. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. Its versatility allows application across various contexts, from describing artistic works to abstract concepts. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject truly embodies self-sufficiency and inherent wholeness, differentiating it from merely being finished. Consider using alternative phrases like "self-contained" or "independent" to fine-tune the intended nuance. The phrase is frequently found in reputable sources such as The New York Times, Encyclopedia Britannica and academic contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-contained

Highlights independence from external factors.

self-sufficient

Emphasizes the ability to provide for oneself without assistance.

independent

Focuses on autonomy and freedom from external control.

autonomous

Stresses the capacity for self-governance.

whole

Emphasizes the completeness and integrity of something.

entire

Highlights the all-inclusive nature of something, lacking nothing.

finished

Indicates the state of being completed or brought to an end.

conclusive

Suggests a final and definitive resolution or result.

in its entirety

Focuses on experiencing or considering something fully and without omission.

internally consistent

Highlights coherence and lack of contradiction within a system or idea.

FAQs

How can I use "complete in itself" in a sentence?

Use "complete in itself" to describe something that doesn't need external elements to be understood or functional. For example, "Each chapter of the book is "complete in itself", allowing readers to enjoy them independently."

What's the difference between "complete in itself" and "self-contained"?

While both suggest independence, "complete in itself" emphasizes inherent wholeness and understandability, whereas "self-contained" focuses on not needing external resources or support.

Can I use "complete in itself" to describe a person?

Yes, but it's less common. It would suggest the person is entirely self-sufficient emotionally, intellectually, and practically. Using alternatives like "self-reliant" or "independent" is often more appropriate.

What are some alternative ways to express that something doesn't require external input?

Consider using phrases like "self-sufficient", "autonomous", or "independent" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.