complete

"Complete" is a very useful word in English with three main roles: it can be an adjective, a verb, or an adverb (in some fixed phrases). It carries the core idea of something being whole, finished, or total — with no parts missing.

1adjectivefinished / done

When something is complete, it means the work is done — nothing more needs to be added or fixed. Think of a puzzle: when you place the last piece, the puzzle is complete.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

Please hand in your assignment when it is complete.

The report will be complete by Friday.

Something complete has all its parts — nothing is left out. If you buy a complete set of tools, every single tool is included in the box.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

The package arrived, but the instructions were not complete — two pages were missing.

She has a complete understanding of the topic.

3adjectivefigurativetotal / used for emphasis

everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative

The meeting was a complete waste of time.

He felt like a complete stranger in his own city.

The project was a complete success.

When you complete something, you bring it to its end — you do everything that was needed. It is a more formal way of saying 'finish'.

everyday language, business, education · Modern, widely used

Please complete the form and return it to the front desk.

5verbfigurativeto make something whole

When you complete something, you add the final missing piece that makes it whole or perfect. Imagine a sentence with a blank — you complete it by filling in the missing word.

everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative