Complementary

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

British English: /ˌkɒmplɪˈmɛntəri/

American English: /ˌkɑːmplɪˈmɛntəri/

Definitions

• Combining in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other.
• Relating to complementary colors, which enhance each other when placed side by side.
• In genetics, referring to the relationship between complementary base pairs in DNA.

Usage Examples

• The two businesses offer complementary services, making them ideal partners.
• Red and green are complementary colors that create a striking contrast.

Etymology

Derived from Latin complēmentum, meaning "that which fills up or completes," combined with the suffix "-ary" indicating relation.

Synonyms

• Harmonious
• Mutually beneficial
• Interdependent

Antonyms

• Contradictory
• Conflicting

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English often drops the "a" sound in the final syllable, while American English emphasizes it.

Historical Usage

The term has been in use since the 17th century, originally in relation to things that complete each other, later expanding into science, business, and art.

Cultural Nuances

In business and relationships, "complementary" is used to describe individuals or teams whose skills and traits enhance one another.

More Information

The concept of complementarity is widely applied in various fields such as physics (wave-particle duality), biology (complementary DNA strands), and even personal relationships, where differing skills and attributes create a balanced dynamic.