complete
/kəmˈpliːt/
This term carries a strong sense of finality and wholeness. When used as an adjective to describe a set or a collection, it suggests that nothing is missing and the intended state of perfection has been reached. When used to describe an emotion or a state, such as a complete shock, it functions as an intensifier meaning absolute or utter, often adding a layer of emphasis to the severity or totality of the experience. As a verb, the word shifts from a state of being to an action of fulfillment. It can describe the mundane act of finishing a task or the more poetic act of providing a missing element to create harmony between two entities. There are no irregular pluralization or countability constraints associated with this word, as it functions as a standard adjective and transitive verb.
Meanings
Having all the necessary or appropriate parts.
"The set is now complete with the final piece."
Total or absolute in degree or quality.
"The surprise was a complete shock to everyone."
Examples
The collection is now complete after the final acquisition.
The sudden news was a complete surprise to the staff.
You must complete the registration process before the deadline.
Her patience completes his impulsive nature perfectly.
Collocations & Compounds
complete set
Noun collocation: a full collection of items
The collector finally acquired a complete set of first edition stamps.
complete silence
Noun collocation: a state of total quiet
A complete silence fell over the crowd as the performer took the stage.
complete failure
Noun collocation: an absolute or total lack of success
The project was a complete failure due to poor planning.
complete the task
Verb collocation: to finish a specific piece of work
It took the team three weeks to complete the task.
complete the process
Verb collocation: to bring a series of actions to an end
You must sign the document to complete the process.
Idioms & Sayings
a complete disaster
a situation that is totally unsuccessful or chaotic
The outdoor wedding turned into a complete disaster when the storm hit.
complete a circuit
to close an electrical loop allowing current to flow
The switch is designed to complete the circuit and turn on the light.