complementary
/ˌkɒmplɪ̈ˈmɛnt(ə)ɹi/
Group 17Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Combining in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other GRE
Example in Context
The two researchers brought complementary skills to the project: one excelled in theory while the other was a gifted experimentalist.
Synonyms
matchingcompletingsupporting
Etymology
Filling together in a way that enhances each other.
- com- (Latin) — together
- plem (Latin) — to fill
Memory Aid
🧀Sounds like “complementary”
Like peanut butter saying to jelly, 'We're COMPLIMENTARY — together we’re a SANDWICH!
Visual Association
🍇A delicious plate of cheese and grapes, perfectly matching and elevating each other's flavors.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “complementary” mean on the GRE?
complementary (adjective) means “Combining in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other”. The two researchers brought complementary skills to the project: one excelled in theory while the other was a gifted experimentalist.
How to remember “complementary” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “complementary” sounds like “complementary”. Like peanut butter saying to jelly, 'We're COMPLIMENTARY — together we’re a SANDWICH!
What are synonyms for “complementary”?
Common synonyms: matching, completing, supporting.