complement

verb  B2
Plain meaning

go well with something and make it better or complete

Exam-register meaning

In academic or exam writing, this is used to discuss go well with something and make it better or complete in a more precise way.

In context
naturalThe team tried to complement a skill before the deadline.
examThe passage suggests that institutions may need to complement a skill in order to improve long-term outcomes.
Common collocations
complement a skillcomplement the designcomplement existing services
Watch out
Do not pair it with a random object. Learn the full pattern, e.g., “complement a skill”. Also avoid confusing it with “match”.
Quick check — can you use it?

The passage suggests that institutions may need to  ______  a skill in order to improve long-term outcomes.

Practice all 660 words free →

More B2 words to master
generate breathe new life into bid approval arch rival