The word for something that is not complementary is either ‘uncomplimentary’ or ‘non-complementary’. Complementary things go well together or complete each other, like peanut butter and jelly. Uncomplimentary or non-complementary things do not go well together and are mismatched or incompatible in some way.
Definitions of Complementary, Non-Complementary and Uncomplimentary
The word ‘complementary’ means things that complete, enhance, or go well with each other. For example, red wine and steak are viewed as complementary foods. The flavors of the red wine bring out and enhance the flavors of a steak. When things are complementary, the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.
‘Non-complementary’ simply means not complementary. Two items that have no real relationship with each other or do not enhance each other would be considered non-complementary. For example, peanut butter and sardines could be viewed as non-complementary foods.
The word ‘uncomplimentary’ has a related but slightly different meaning than non-complementary. Uncomplimentary suggests that two things actively clash or do not go well together. For example, stripes and plaid would be considered uncomplimentary patterns when worn together. Uncomplimentary things may seem mismatched or incompatible.
Examples of Complementary and Non-Complementary Things
Here are some more examples of complementary and non-complementary items:
Complementary
- Wine & cheese
- Strawberries & cream
- Peanut butter & jelly
- Coffee & donuts
- Chips & salsa
Non-Complementary
- Popcorn & ketchup
- Pineapple & sausage
- Yogurt & potato chips
- Oatmeal & gummy bears
- Watermelon & soy sauce
As you can see, complementary items tend to naturally enhance one another and bring out their best qualities. Non-complementary items lack any natural synergy or relationship so they seem mismatched or random together.
Using Complementary vs. Non-Complementary Colors
The concept of complementary and non-complementary relationships also applies to color theory. Complementary colors are opposite one another on the color wheel. Some examples of complementary color pairs:
- Red & green
- Yellow & purple
- Blue & orange
When complementary colors are placed side-by-side, they create a vibrant, high-contrast dynamic that really makes the colors “pop”.
Non-complementary color combinations do not have the same natural dynamism. There is no right or wrong when selecting non-complementary color schemes, but the colors will not automatically enhance one another.
Complementary Color Scheme
| Red | Green |
Non-Complementary Color Scheme
| Purple | Yellow |
As you can see, complementary colors have an energy that non-complementary combinations lack. This dynamism and contrast is what makes complementary colors so popular in design work.
Complementary vs. Uncomplimentary Feedback
The terms complementary and uncomplimentary also apply to feedback and criticism.
Complementary feedback builds people up and reinforces their strengths and talents. Positive phrases like “You did a great job on this project” or “Your presentation skills have really improved” are examples of complementary feedback.
Uncomplimentary feedback focuses on negatives and weaknesses. Phrases like “This report was poorly organized” or “Your leadership skills need a lot of work” provide uncomplimentary criticism rather than constructive feedback.
Providing Complementary Feedback
- Highlight strengths
- Note areas of improvement
- Use positive and supportive language
- Provide specific examples
- Offer guidance for growth
Characteristics of Uncomplimentary Feedback:
- Highly critical without balance
- Focused only on weaknesses
- Uses harsh or confrontational language
- Lacks specific examples
- Provides no guidance for improvement
Managers should learn to give feedback that balances complementary and constructive guidance to bring out the best in their team members.
Uncomplimentary Relationships Between People
Interpersonal relationships can also be either complementary or uncomplimentary. Complementary relationships are built on mutual trust, respect and support. The people “click” and bring out each other’s best qualities.
Uncomplimentary relationships are marked by conflict, mistrust, lack of respect and inability to collaborate. Instead of bringing out the best, uncomplimentary relationships often spiral into negativity and bring out the worst in both people.
Signs of an uncomplimentary relationship include:
- Frequent arguments
- Lack of empathy
- Feeling unable to be vulnerable
- Competition instead of teamwork
- Clashing values or priorities
- Jealousy or resentment
- Disrespect, insults or meanness
If a relationship seems uncomplimentary, it is worth evaluating whether changes, counselling or ending the relationship altogether would be healthiest for both people.
Uncomplimentary Words and Phrases
Language itself can also be uncomplimentary. Here are some examples of words and phrases that would be considered uncomplimentary:
- Atrocious, abysmal
- Defective, deficient
- Disagreeable, distasteful
- Dreadful, dismal
- Foolish, futile
- Horrible, hideous
- Inadequate, inferior
- Naïve, nonsensical
- Objectionable, obnoxious
- Pitiful, pathetic
- Quarrelsome, quarreling
- Terrible, terrifying
- Unacceptable, unpleasant
- Vulgar, vile
- Worthless, wasteful
Using excessive uncomplimentary language tends to create a negative tone and atmosphere. In both personal and professional communication, it is best to minimize uncomplimentary verbiage.
Antonyms for Complementary
Some direct antonyms and words meaning the opposite of complementary include:
- Clashing
- Conflicting
- Contrasting
- Discordant
- Incompatible
- Incongruous
- Inconsistent
- Irreconcilable
- Mismatched
- Opposing
- Unsuitable
While these words all indicate a lack of complementarity, “uncomplimentary” and “non-complementary” are the most commonly used terms to directly denote the opposite of complementary.
Conclusion
In summary, the main words that mean not complementary are “uncomplimentary” and “non-complementary.” Things that are uncomplimentary or non-complementary lack synergy and compatibility with each other. They clash rather than complement.
Understanding complementary and uncomplimentary relationships can help with everything from color selection to interpersonal communication and feedback delivery. Aiming for complementarity usually creates balance, harmony and brings out the best results. Minimizing uncomplimentary elements keeps things positive.
So in both work and life, it often pays dividends to intentionally build complementary connections while limiting uncomplimentary mismatches. A little complementarity goes a long way!
