completing each other

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "completing each other" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship where two people enhance or fulfill each other's qualities or needs. Example: "In a strong partnership, both individuals are completing each other, creating a harmonious balance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

"We were completing each other," he says.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

By completing each other this way, you would both be fulfilled.

The New York Times

The two talk constantly, completing each other's sentences and delivering punch lines in unison.

The Washington Post

The lads are clearly great mates, almost constantly laughing and completing each other's sentences.

Independent

They were a great team that relished telling stories of a life well lived, often completing each other's sentences.

The New York Times

When asked why, they give a variation of "things had to change, we need jobs again", then explain further, speaking as one, completing each other's sentences.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

"We completed each other".

The New York Times

Dare I say, they complete each other.

The New York Times

They often complete each other's sentences.

The New York Times

They almost complete each other's sentences.

Princeton University

As a couple, they did not complete each other.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "completing each other" to emphasize that each party contributes essential qualities that, when combined, create a stronger whole.

Common error

Avoid using "completing each other" when the relationship is one-sided or when one party is simply benefiting from the other without contributing equally. Ensure both entities actively contribute to the other's fulfillment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "completing each other" functions as a reciprocal expression, typically used to describe a relationship or partnership where each party enhances or fulfills the other. This aligns with examples provided by Ludwig, showing its use in describing personal relationships and functional collaborations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "completing each other" is a grammatically correct and understandable reciprocal expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. While not extremely common, it effectively conveys mutual enhancement or fulfillment, particularly in relationships and collaborative efforts. It's versatile enough for various contexts, but ensuring a clear reciprocal relationship is crucial for accurate usage. The phrase appears more frequently in News & Media sources. Alternatives such as "complementing each other" and "supplementing each other" offer similar but nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complementing each other

Focuses on how elements enhance or improve one another by supplying what is lacking.

supplementing each other

Highlights the idea of adding to or reinforcing each other's qualities or abilities.

enhancing each other

Emphasizes the act of improving or intensifying each other's strengths.

mutually supporting each other

Stresses the reciprocal nature of assistance and encouragement.

fulfilling each other's needs

Points to the satisfaction of requirements or desires within a relationship or partnership.

harmonizing with each other

Suggests a blending or agreement that creates a pleasing or balanced effect.

integrating with each other

Implies a combining or uniting of separate elements into a cohesive whole.

meshing well together

Indicates a smooth and effective interaction or collaboration.

working in synergy

Highlights the combined effect that is greater than the sum of their separate effects.

collaborating effectively

Focuses on the act of working jointly on a project or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "completing each other" in a sentence?

You can use "completing each other" to describe relationships where individuals enhance each other's strengths or compensate for weaknesses. For example: "They felt they were "completing each other"'s abilities and understanding."

What is a good substitute for "completing each other"?

Alternatives include "complementing each other", "supplementing each other", or "enhancing each other", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "completing each other" in formal writing?

Yes, "completing each other" is suitable for formal writing, but ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning of mutual enhancement. Phrases like "mutually supporting each other" might be more precise in some business or academic contexts.

What's the difference between "completing each other" and "complementing each other"?

"Completing each other" suggests filling gaps or providing what is lacking, whereas "complementing each other" implies enhancing existing qualities. While similar, ""completing each other"" is stronger, emphasizing mutual fulfillment.