complementary color: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumTechnical / Academic / Artistic
Quick answer
What does “complementary color” mean?
A color that, when combined with another specific color in the right proportion, produces a neutral color (like gray, white, or black). On a traditional color wheel, complementary colors are directly opposite each other.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A color that, when combined with another specific color in the right proportion, produces a neutral color (like gray, white, or black). On a traditional color wheel, complementary colors are directly opposite each other.
More broadly, any two colors that are perceived as being in high contrast and therefore visually enhancing each other when placed side by side. In design, complementary colors are often used to create vibrancy and draw attention.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling: 'complementary colour' (UK) vs. 'complementary color' (US). The term is equally technical and frequent in both variants.
Connotations
None beyond the spelling difference.
Frequency
Identical frequency in relevant technical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “complementary color” in a Sentence
The complementary color of [color] is [color].[Color A] and [Color B] are complementary colors.To use a complementary color scheme...Placed next to its complementary color...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “complementary color” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The artist decided to complement the blue with a bit of orange.
- You can complement your base colour with its opposite.
American English
- The designer complemented the blue with a bit of orange.
- You can complement your base color with its opposite.
adjective
British English
- She used a complementary colour scheme for the brochure.
- The complementary hues made the painting dynamic.
American English
- She used a complementary color scheme for the brochure.
- The complementary hues made the painting dynamic.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in marketing, branding, and web design discussions to create visually striking materials.
Academic
Core term in color theory, visual perception studies, art history, and design courses.
Everyday
Used by hobbyists in painting, interior decorating, or fashion. Not common in general conversation.
Technical
Precise definition in optics, digital imaging (RGB/CMY), and printing (CMYK).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “complementary color”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “complementary color”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “complementary color”
- Misspelling as 'complimentary color' (incorrect).
- Confusing with 'split-complementary' or 'triadic' color schemes.
- Thinking complementary colors always 'look good' together—they create contrast, which can be jarring if not balanced.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In basic color theory, yes. 'Opposite color' is a less technical synonym. However, the precise opposite can vary depending on the color model (e.g., RYB for paint, RGB for light, CMYK for print).
Not necessarily. They create maximum contrast, which can be eye-catching and vibrant, but also harsh or jarring if not used carefully. They often need to be balanced in terms of saturation and area.
'Complementary' means 'completing a whole' (from 'complement'). 'Complimentary' means 'free of charge' or 'expressing praise' (from 'compliment'). This is a very common spelling mistake.
Yes. Classic pairs are: Red & Green, Blue & Orange, Yellow & Purple. These are the pairs found opposite each other on a traditional color wheel.
A color that, when combined with another specific color in the right proportion, produces a neutral color (like gray, white, or black). On a traditional color wheel, complementary colors are directly opposite each other.
Complementary color is usually technical / academic / artistic in register.
Complementary color: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkɒmplɪˈmɛnt(ə)ri ˈkʌlə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkɑːmpləˈmentəri ˈkʌlɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[They are] like complementary colors.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'complete' within 'complementary' – together they complete the color wheel.
Conceptual Metaphor
COLORS ARE OPPOSITES (on a wheel). VISUAL IMPACT IS PHYSICAL FORCE (they 'vibrate' next to each other).
Practice
Quiz
What is the complementary color of blue on a standard RYB (artists') color wheel?