complete the rest

USAGE SUMMARY

The use of the phrase "complete the rest" in written English is typically seen in instructions.
For example, you might write: "Put your name and address in the top left corner of the page. Complete the rest of the form as indicated."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You will need the individual subscriber's phone number to complete the rest of the phone call.

WikiHow

Furyk will complete the rest of the tournament unofficially.

The New York Times - Sports

Complete the rest of the application and Click "Submit".

Cornell University

Infantino will complete the rest of Blatter's presidential term, serving through May 2019.

The Telegraph

They are due to complete the rest of the stages of the bill on Thursday.

The Guardian

After that, the amount of time it will take to complete the rest will vary.

University of California, Berkeley

You'll need to log in to your account to complete the rest of registration.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

When you see the additional options, select "Media Recordings". Complete the rest of the form selecting the appropriate options.

Yale University

Worsley estimated that it would take him about three weeks to complete the rest of his journey, and he hoped that the hardest part was behind him.

The New Yorker

Complete the rest of the application questions and click "Review and Submit". Each applicant can apply for a maximum of two program-arranged positions.

Stanford University

Some courses are also designed in stages so that students can qualify for a diploma level qualification after completing a set number of credits and then decide whether to go on and complete the rest of the course.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complete the rest", ensure that the context clearly indicates what has already been started and what remains to be finished. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "complete the rest" without specifying what "the rest" refers to. Always provide sufficient context so the reader understands what needs to be completed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complete the rest" functions as a directive, typically used in instructions or commands. It presupposes that a portion of something has already been done and instructs the recipient to finish the remaining part. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

29%

News & Media

29%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Science

14%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complete the rest" is a frequently used phrase serving as a directive to finish something that has already been partially addressed. It is grammatically correct and applicable in both written and spoken English, maintaining a neutral register suitable for varied contexts, including academic, news, and general instructions. Ludwig examples show the phrase is typically found in instructions. To ensure clarity, always provide sufficient context, clearly indicating what "the rest" refers to. While variations exist, like "finish the remainder", choosing "complete the rest" offers a versatile and widely understood option.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

finish the remainder

Replaces "rest" with "remainder", slightly emphasizing the portion left to complete.

conclude the remaining part

Uses "conclude" instead of "complete", suggesting a formal ending, and "remaining part" for "the rest".

finalize the balance

Substitutes "complete" with "finalize", focusing on the final step, and "balance" for "the rest", implying what's left.

accomplish the residue

Uses "accomplish" in place of "complete", and "residue" for "the rest", denoting what remains to be done.

execute the rest

Replaces "complete" with "execute", suggesting a more active or forceful completion.

fulfil the residual tasks

Uses "fulfil" instead of "complete", implying a duty or obligation, and specifies "residual tasks".

discharge the balance

Employs "discharge" in lieu of "complete", conveying a sense of release or clearance regarding the remaining portion.

wind up the remaining items

Substitutes "complete" with "wind up", indicating a conclusive action, and "remaining items" for "the rest".

wrap up the outstanding portion

Uses "wrap up" to replace "complete", suggesting a neat and tidy finish, and specifies "outstanding portion".

put the finishing touches

Replaces the entire phrase, focusing solely on the final details needed for completion.

FAQs

How can I use "complete the rest" in a sentence?

You can use "complete the rest" to instruct someone to finish something after an initial part has been addressed, for example, "After filling out your personal details, "complete the rest" of the application form".

What is a good alternative to "complete the rest"?

Alternatives include phrases like "finish the remainder", "conclude the remaining part", or "finalize the balance", depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it more formal to say "complete the remainder" instead of "complete the rest"?

Yes, "complete the remainder" is generally considered more formal than "complete the rest". "Remainder" is a slightly more formal word than "rest", making the phrase suitable for professional or academic contexts.

Can I use "complete the rest" in both written and spoken English?

Yes, "complete the rest" is appropriate for both written and spoken English. It is a versatile phrase that can be used in various settings, from casual conversations to formal instructions.