Complete vs. Initiate: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 8, 2023
Complete means to finish a task fully, whereas initiate means to begin or start something.
Key Differences
Complete is the act of finishing or bringing something to an end, fulfilling all necessary requirements. To initiate, however, is to begin something, to set processes in motion. Completing a task implies it has reached its endpoint, while initiating suggests it is at the starting phase.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Initiating a project involves establishing objectives and planning the first steps; completing involves ensuring these objectives are met and the project is finished. Initiating sets the stage for action, while completing is about concluding that action. Each project initiated must eventually be completed, marking the full cycle of an endeavor.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
One might initiate a new habit or routine, taking the first steps towards change, while completing a habit loop signifies that the routine has become a natural part of one's life. Initiating is about the courage to start, whereas completing is about the perseverance to carry through.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
An author initiates a book by outlining chapters and themes; the book is completed when the final draft is ready for publication. The process of initiation is filled with potential and possibilities, while completion is a testament to the effort and work invested.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Both initiation and completion are crucial in any domain; without initiation, there would be no progress, and without completion, there would be no satisfaction of achievement. A balance of both is essential: initiating new ideas and completing them is the rhythm of productivity and success.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
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Comparison Chart
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Complete and Initiate Definitions
Complete
Entirely finished.
She completed the marathon, exhausted but triumphant.
Huma Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Initiate
To introduce to a new field.
The mentor will initiate the intern to the work culture.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
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Initiate
To admit someone into membership.
The society initiates new members with a ceremony.
Janet White
Nov 08, 2023
Initiate
To cause the beginning.
Their discussion initiated a new research topic.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Complete
Having all necessary or normal parts, components, or steps; entire
A complete medical history.
A complete set of dishes.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2022
Initiate
To set going by taking the first step; begin
Initiated trade with developing nations.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2022
Initiate
To introduce to a new field, interest, skill, or activity
Initiated the students into the world of opera.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2022
FAQs
Can initiate and complete be used interchangeably?
No, they refer to different stages of a process.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Can you initiate without completing?
Yes, it's possible to start something and not finish it.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Is completion always the goal of initiation?
Typically, yes, most initiated processes aim for completion.
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
What does complete mean?
Complete means to finish something fully or make it whole.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Can you complete something without initiating it?
No, something must be initiated before it can be completed.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
Is initiate a noun?
Initiate can be a verb or a noun when referring to a person who has been initiated.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
What does it mean to initiate a change?
It means to start or cause a change to begin.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Can a person be an initiate?
Yes, when they are new to a particular group or activity.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
What does it mean to complete someone?
It typically means to perfect or complement them.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Does complete always imply perfection?
Not always; it can simply mean that nothing has been left undone.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Can initiate imply innovation?
Yes, initiating often involves introducing new ideas or methods.
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
What's an example of initiate as a noun?
"He is an initiate in the fraternity."
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
How do you use initiate in a sentence?
"They will initiate the project next week."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Can a person be described as complete?
Yes, describing someone as complete means they lack nothing.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 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
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
