perfect complement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "perfect complement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that enhances or completes another thing in an ideal way. Example: "The rich chocolate cake was the perfect complement to the strong coffee served at the café."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Food

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Perfect complement, soup.

The New Yorker

A glass of chilled Barsac would be the perfect complement.

The New York Times

The sweet and smoky beans are a perfect complement.

The New York Times

He is the perfect complement to Dan Blackburn.

The New York Times - Sports

A glass of hearty Extremadura red was the perfect complement.

The New York Times - Travel

It's the perfect complement to her sultry Southern Gothic music.

The New York Times

We drank rough red wine, the perfect complement.

The New York Times - Food

Still, each seemed the perfect complement for the other.

The New York Times - Sports

"With all of our civil rights museums, a slavery exhibit would be the perfect complement".

The New York Times

They were the perfect complement to the wines, their rich butteriness softening the tannins.

The New York Times - Food

Mr. Douglas's music provided a perfect complement to her ideas for the works.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "perfect complement", ensure that the relationship between the two elements is clearly defined and that the complementary nature is evident to the reader. For example, "The smooth jazz was the "perfect complement" to the relaxed atmosphere of the lounge".

Common error

Avoid using "perfect complement" to describe elements that are merely similar or adjacent. The phrase implies a synergistic relationship where each element enhances the other, not just coexists with it. A frequent error is using it when the items relate to the same topic but do not 'complete' each other.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "perfect complement" functions as a noun phrase, where "perfect" modifies the noun "complement". It typically identifies something that enhances or completes another thing in an ideal or flawless way. Ludwig's examples showcase usage across various contexts, reinforcing this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "perfect complement" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that enhances or completes another thing in an ideal way. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While it can be used in both formal and informal settings, it's essential to ensure that the relationship between the two elements is synergistic and not merely adjacent. Alternatives like "ideal accompaniment" or "excellent addition" can be used to provide similar nuances depending on the specific context. Avoid using it when the items relate to the same topic but do not 'complete' each other.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ideal accompaniment

Replaces 'complement' with 'accompaniment', suggesting something that goes well with something else, often food or music. Has a slightly different nuance.

flawless pairing

Emphasizes the compatibility and suitability of two elements. Suggests a well-considered and successful match.

optimal match

Underscores the suitability and appropriateness of the pairing. Implies a careful selection process.

excellent addition

Focuses on the enhancing aspect of the phrase. Slightly more general than "perfect complement".

superb enhancement

Highlights the improvement or augmentation provided. Centers on the positive effect of one thing on another.

fitting counterpart

Highlights the matching or corresponding quality. Suggests a relationship of equivalence or balance.

natural affinity

Implies an inherent connection or compatibility. Suggests an effortless and intuitive pairing.

ideal supplement

Emphasizes the filling-in or completing aspect. Implies something is added to make the original whole.

seamless integration

Focuses on how well two things combine. Conveys a sense of harmony and effortlessness.

harmonious combination

Stresses the pleasing and balanced nature of the combination. More focused on aesthetic appeal.

FAQs

How can I use "perfect complement" in a sentence?

Use "perfect complement" to describe something that enhances or completes something else in an ideal way. For example: "The wine was the "perfect complement" to the cheese plate."

What can I say instead of "perfect complement"?

You can use alternatives like "ideal accompaniment", "excellent addition", or "fitting counterpart" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say something is a "perfect complement for" something else?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to say something is a "perfect complement for" something else. For example: "The new software is the "perfect complement" for our existing system."

What is the difference between "perfect complement" and "perfect match"?

"Perfect complement" implies that two things enhance each other, whereas "perfect match" suggests that two things are very similar and compatible. A "perfect complement" completes something, while a perfect match mirrors it.