Completers: meaning, definitions and examples

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completers

 

[ kəmˈpliːtərz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

grammar terms

Completers are words or phrases that complete the meaning of a sentence. They are often necessary for the sentence to convey a clear and precise idea. Completers can take the form of clauses, phrases, or single words that provide additional information.

Synonyms

complement, filler, modifier

Examples of usage

  • In the sentence 'She considers him a friend', 'a friend' is a completer.
  • The verb needs a completer to express a complete thought.
  • In grammar, the function of completers is crucial for clarity.

Word origin

The term 'completer' derives from the verb 'complete', which comes from the Latin 'completere', meaning 'to fill up, finish, or fulfill'. The Latin word is a combination of 'com-' (entirely) and 'plere' (to fill). The use of 'completer' in grammatical contexts can be traced back to the 19th century, where it began to gain traction among linguists to describe units of speech that add information to lead sentences towards resolution. The evolution of the term has further established it among educators and learners across various languages, showcasing the importance of completeness in communication.