C1noun10K+

Supplement

UK /["/ˈsʌplɪmənt/"]/US /["/ˈsʌplɪmənt/"]/

Definition

a thing that is added to something else to improve or complete it

In simple words: Something added to help or improve something else.

Examples

  • The textbook serves as a supplement to the main course material.
  • Many athletes take vitamin supplements to enhance their performance.
  • The magazine published a special supplement focused on environmental issues.
  • She decided to create a supplement for her diet that includes protein powder.
  • The financial report included a supplement detailing recent expenditures.

Usage notes

Used in contexts related to health, nutrition, and finance. Avoid in casual conversations unless discussing specific dietary needs or financial advice.

Grammar pattern

supplement + object

Memory hint

Think of 'supplement' as 'supp-le-ment', like adding extra 'lemon' to your drink for flavor.

Collocations

  • useful
  • valuable
  • colour/​color
  • provide (somebody/​something with)
  • add
  • take
  • supplement to
  • useful
  • valuable
  • colour/​color
  • provide (somebody/​something with)
  • add
  • take
  • supplement to
  • useful
  • valuable
  • colour/​color
  • provide (somebody/​something with)
  • add
  • take
  • supplement to
  • additional
  • extra
  • $100
  • add
  • charge
  • carry
  • be payable
  • at a supplement
  • supplement for
  • supplement on

Synonyms

  • surcharge

Antonyms

  • reduction
  • diminution
  • lessening

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'complement', which means something that completes another.
  • Using it as a verb when referring to physical items instead of additional support.