What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
complimentary
Example
The hotel offers complimentary breakfast to all guests. [complimentary: adjective]
Example
She received many complimentary remarks on her performance. [complimentary: adjective]
Example
The red wine was a complimentary addition to the steak dinner. [complimentary: adjective]
supplementary
Example
The textbook includes supplementary materials such as quizzes and exercises. [supplementary: adjective]
Example
The professor provided supplementary readings to supplement the course material. [supplementary: adjective]
Example
The generator is a supplementary power source in case of a blackout. [supplementary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Supplementary is more commonly used than complimentary in academic or technical contexts, while complimentary is more commonly used in hospitality or social interactions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between complimentary and supplementary?
Both complimentary and supplementary can be used in formal and informal contexts, but supplementary is more likely to be used in technical or academic writing, while complimentary is more likely to be used in social or customer service contexts.
