Complete or Completed? How to Correctly Use Each Word

Language becomes more vibrant and precise when we use the right form of a word in the right context.

“Complete” and “completed” are such words, and though they stem from the same root, their uses differ slightly.

Let’s delve into their distinct applications to ensure clarity in communication.

Quick Summary

“Complete” can function as an adjective, meaning whole or finished, or as a verb, meaning to make whole or finished. “Completed,” on the other hand, is the past tense and past participle form of the verb “complete” and indicates that an action has been finished in the past.

Complete vs. Completed – Which is Correct?

Both “complete” and “completed” are correct but serve different grammatical purposes. Recognizing the context will guide you to the right choice.

Word	When to Use	Example
Complete	As an adjective or present tense verb	– The puzzle is complete. (adjective) – I need to complete my homework. (verb)
Completed	Past tense or past participle verb	– He completed the marathon. (past tense) – The completed project was a success. (past participle)

How to Use Complete

1. As an Adjective: Use “complete” when describing something as whole, finished, or entire.
   • Example: The list is complete, and we can start the preparations.
2. As a Verb: Use “complete” in the present tense when indicating the action of finishing something.
   • Example: She will complete the assignment by tomorrow.

How to Use Completed

1. Past Tense Verb: Use “completed” to indicate that an action of finishing was done in the past.
   • Example: He completed the project last week.
2. Past Participle: Use “completed” with auxiliary verbs to form verb tenses that talk about finished actions.
   • Example: The work has been completed ahead of schedule.

Practice Exercises

1. The puzzle looks _______ now.
2. She _______ her degree last year.
3. I have a few tasks to _______ before the end of the day.
4. The _______ artwork was displayed in the gallery.
5. The form seems _______ and ready for submission.

Answer Key:

1. complete
2. completed
3. complete
4. completed
5. complete

Conclusion

Understanding the nuanced difference between “complete” and “completed” adds precision to your communication. While “complete” can function both as an adjective and a verb in the present tense, “completed” indicates a finished action in the past.

Should any confusion arise, always refer back to this guide for clarity on the use of “complete” and “completed.”