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complementarity

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌkɒmplɪmɛnˈtærɪti/

KK: /kəmˌplɛməˈtɛrɪti/

noun
Definition

The quality or state of being complementary, where two or more things complete or enhance each other.


Example

The complementarity of the two theories helps us understand the complex nature of light.


Conversation
Sloth A
I was reading about how different ideas can actually work together.
Sloth B
Yeah, that makes sense, especially when you think about complementarity in nature.
Sloth A
Right? It’s interesting how opposites can balance each other out.
Sloth B
Exactly! It’s like how teamwork brings out the best in everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
correspondence
harmony
balance
Antonyms
discrepancy
conflict
incompatibility
Root Explanation

Complementarity → It is formed from "com-" (meaning together) and "plementum" (meaning that which completes). The word "complementarity" refers to the quality of being complementary or completing each other.

Memory Tip

Think of things that work "together" ('com-') to "complete" ('plementum') each other — that's what complementarity means.

Visually Confused Words
anticomplementary
uncomplimentary
commentary
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