What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
serve
Example
The waiter will serve us our meals shortly. [serve: verb]
Example
As a police officer, it is my duty to serve and protect the community. [serve: verb]
Example
This new software will serve our needs better than the old one. [serve: verb]
complete
Example
I need to complete this report before the deadline. [complete: verb]
Example
The puzzle is now complete with all the pieces in place. [complete: adjective]
Example
The team has a complete set of equipment for the game. [complete: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complete is more commonly used than serve in everyday language. Complete is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while serve is more specific to the context of providing food or drink or fulfilling a duty.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between serve and complete?
Complete is generally considered more formal than serve. While serve can be used in both formal and informal contexts, complete is often used in more formal writing or speech to convey a sense of completeness or thoroughness.
