Complement vs. Adjunct: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 7, 2023
Complement is a word or phrase that is necessary to complete the meaning of a sentence, while an adjunct is an optional part that adds extra information.
Key Differences
A complement is a word or phrase that is necessary to complete the meaning of a given expression in a sentence. An adjunct is an optional part of a sentence that modifies a verb or clause but is not required to complete the sentence's meaning.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Complements are integral to a sentence, providing necessary information that completes the meaning of a clause. Adjuncts add non-essential information, such as time, manner, place, and reason, which can be removed without altering the fundamental meaning of the sentence.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
In grammar, a complement often directly follows the verb or linking verb and identifies or describes the subject. Adjuncts, on the other hand, can be moved to different positions in the sentence or omitted entirely without affecting the grammatical correctness.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Complements include subject complements (which follow a linking verb and describe the subject) and object complements (which follow and modify the direct object). Adjuncts are typically adverbial phrases or clauses providing additional context.
Janet White
Nov 07, 2023
Complements can be obligatory for certain verbs that require additional information to make sense. Adjuncts are always optional and often provide circumstantial details, enhancing but not completing a sentence’s meaning.
Harlon Moss
Nov 07, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Function in a sentence
Completes the meaning of a sentence.
Adds extra information to a sentence.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Types
Subject and object complements.
Adverbial, nominal, and clausal adjuncts.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Position
Fixed position related to verb or object.
Flexible position in the sentence.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 07, 2023
Dependence
Depends on a specific verb or adjective.
No dependence on other sentence elements.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
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Complement and Adjunct Definitions
Complement
In math, an angle that, when added to another, equals 90 degrees.
A 30-degree angle is the complement of a 60-degree angle.
Janet White
Nov 07, 2023
Adjunct
A word or phrase used to embellish or modify.
In the sentence, 'She sings beautifully,' 'beautifully' is an adjunct.
Harlon Moss
Nov 07, 2023
Complement
In color theory, a color that, when combined with another, creates white or black.
Green is the complement of red.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Adjunct
An accessory or complement in various contexts.
This software is an adjunct to the main product.
Sara Rehman
Nov 07, 2023
Complement
A grammatical term for a word that completes a verb.
The soup was a perfect complement to the main dish.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 07, 2023
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Adjunct
An additional and non-essential part of a sentence.
She will travel tomorrow, with tomorrow being an adjunct.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 07, 2023
Complement
The number of people required to fill a quota or complete a team.
We reached our full complement of staff for the project.
Janet White
Nov 07, 2023
Adjunct
Something added or connected to a larger or more important thing.
He is working as an adjunct to the research team.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Complement
A thing that contributes extra features to something else.
Her scarf is a great complement to her outfit.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Adjunct
An assistant or subordinate in certain professional roles.
She was hired as an adjunct professor at the university.
Janet White
Nov 07, 2023
Complement
Something that completes, makes up a whole, or brings to perfection
A sauce that is a fine complement to fish.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 30, 2023
Adjunct
Something attached to another in a dependent or subordinate position.
Sumera Saeed
Apr 30, 2023
FAQs
Is a complement always required?
For certain verbs and constructions, yes, a complement is required.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Are adjuncts always adverbs?
No, they can also be adverbial phrases, prepositional phrases, or clauses.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
What does complement mean in a sentence?
It's a word or phrase needed to complete the meaning of a sentence.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
How do I identify a complement in a sentence?
Look for a word or phrase that completes the idea of what the subject is doing or being.
Janet White
Nov 07, 2023
Can a sentence have both a complement and an adjunct?
Yes, a sentence can include both components.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Can an adjunct become a complement?
No, adjuncts are by definition non-essential and cannot become complements.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 07, 2023
Are complements used in questions?
Yes, when the question requires it for completeness.
Harlon Moss
Nov 07, 2023
Do adjuncts affect the tense of a sentence?
No, they do not affect the tense.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Do all sentences need complements?
Not all, only those with verbs or linking verbs that require additional information.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Can adjuncts be omitted in imperative sentences?
Yes, adjuncts can be omitted without changing the imperative nature.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
What is an adjunct in grammar?
An adjunct is an optional part of a sentence that adds information.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 07, 2023
Can an adjunct provide a contrast?
Yes, adjuncts can provide contrast, conditions, reasons, and other information.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 07, 2023
Can the removal of an adjunct change the meaning of a sentence?
It can change the detail but not the fundamental meaning.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 07, 2023
Do different types of complements exist?
Yes, there are subject complements and object complements.
Sara Rehman
Nov 07, 2023
Can complements be phrases?
Yes, complements can be phrases or single words.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 07, 2023
Can a complement be part of a compound sentence?
Yes, as long as it completes the thought of the clause it belongs to.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
Are there different types of adjuncts?
Yes, including adverbial, nominal, and clausal adjuncts.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
How do adjuncts enhance sentences?
They add context, detail, and richness to the narrative.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
What role do adjuncts play in academic writing?
They provide precision and depth to the argument.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 07, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
