What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exhaustive
Example
The detective conducted an exhaustive search of the crime scene. [exhaustive: adjective]
Example
The report provided an exhaustive analysis of the company's financial performance. [exhaustive: adjective]
complete
Example
I have completed my homework for the day. [completed: verb]
Example
The book provides a complete overview of the history of art. [complete: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complete is more commonly used than exhaustive in everyday language. Complete is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while exhaustive is less common and is typically used in more formal or technical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between exhaustive and complete?
Exhaustive is generally considered more formal and technical than complete, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
