Inklingo

How to Say "complementary" in Spanish

The Spanish word forcomplementaryis complementarioB1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.

English → SpanishB1
adjectiveB1
things that go well together or complete each other
A pair of colorful knitted mittens that match perfectly.

Examples

El curso incluye material complementario para estudiar en casa.

The course includes supplementary material for studying at home.

El azul y el naranja son colores complementarios.

Blue and orange are complementary colors.

Sus habilidades son complementarias y hacen un gran equipo.

Their skills are complementary and they make a great team.

Matching the Word Ending

Since this word is an adjective, you must change the ending to match what you are describing: 'complementario' for masculine singular, 'complementaria' for feminine singular, 'complementarios' for masculine plural, and 'complementarias' for feminine plural.

Where to Put It

In Spanish, you usually place this word after the person or thing you are describing. For example: 'un seguro complementario' (a supplementary insurance).

The 'Free' Trap

Mistake:Using 'complementario' to mean a free gift or service.

Correction: In English, 'complimentary' can mean 'free.' In Spanish, 'complementario' ONLY means 'completing' or 'extra.' For a free item, use 'gratis' or 'de cortesía'.

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