complementarity: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Academic, Technical
Quick answer
What does “complementarity” mean?
A state or relationship where two or more different things enhance each other's qualities or complete a whole by being contrasting yet interdependent.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A state or relationship where two or more different things enhance each other's qualities or complete a whole by being contrasting yet interdependent.
In specialized contexts, it describes the principle in quantum physics where pairs of physical properties (like position and momentum) cannot be simultaneously measured with precision, or in biology, the specific matching of molecular structures that enables interaction.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or usage differences. Concept is equally prevalent in scientific and socio-economic discourse in both varieties.
Connotations
Slightly more common in British academic writing on social policy (e.g., gender complementarity). In American English, strong association with quantum physics and business strategy.
Frequency
Low-frequency word in both regions, primarily confined to expert discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “complementarity” in a Sentence
complementarity between X and Ycomplementarity of X with Ycomplementarity in XVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “complementarity” in a Sentence
adverb
British English
- The two systems work complementarily.
American English
- The two modules function complementarily.
adjective
British English
- Their skillsets are highly complementary.
- We seek complementary business models.
American English
- Their skillsets are highly complementary.
- We're looking for complementary technologies.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to the strategic alignment of different company divisions or partner firms where their strengths offset each other's weaknesses.
Academic
A core concept in sociology describing gender roles, in biology for molecular interactions, and in physics (Bohr's principle).
Everyday
Rarely used. Might describe a good working partnership where skills differ but combine effectively.
Technical
Quantum mechanics: the wave-particle duality. Economics: complementary goods. Law: complementary jurisdictions.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “complementarity”
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “complementarity”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “complementarity”
- Using 'complimentary' (free or flattering) – a spelling error. Confusing it with 'compatibility'. Overusing in informal contexts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it's almost the opposite. Complementarity relies on difference that creates a complete whole, whereas similarity is about likeness.
It would sound very formal. In everyday talk, use phrases like 'they balance each other out' or 'their skills fit together perfectly'.
Misspelling it as 'complimentary' (meaning free or flattering). Remember the 'e' in 'complement' relates to 'completing' something.
The related verb is 'complement' (to complete or enhance). 'Complementarity' is the noun describing the state or principle.
A state or relationship where two or more different things enhance each other's qualities or complete a whole by being contrasting yet interdependent.
Complementarity is usually formal, academic, technical in register.
Complementarity: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkɒmplɪmenˈtærəti/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkɑːmplɪmenˈtærəti/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Two sides of the same coin (related concept, but less technical)”
- “Fit hand in glove (suggests complementarity)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a LOCK and KEY: two different shapes (complement-) that complete (-arity) a function only when together.
Conceptual Metaphor
SYMBIOSIS IS COMPLEMENTARITY (two entities thrive through their differing contributions); A WHOLE IS COMPLETED BY CONTRASTING PARTS.
Practice
Quiz
Which field is MOST associated with the technical term 'complementarity'?