What is the difference between complete and finish?
What is the difference between complete and finished?
The words complete and finish are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two.
Complete means to do something entirely or to the end. It implies that all the necessary steps have been taken to complete a task or project. For example, you can say that you have completed your homework if you have answered all the questions and turned it into your teacher.
Finish also means to end something, but it can also mean to do something to a high standard or to put the finishing touches on something. For example, you can say that you have finished painting your room if you have applied all the coats of paint and are satisfied with the results.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between complete and finished:
| No. | Complete | Finish |
| 1 | To do something entirely or to the end. | To end something. |
| 2 | Can be used as a verb or an adjective. | Can only be used as a verb. |
| 3 | Usually implies that all the necessary steps have been taken. | Can also mean to do something to a high standard or to put the finishing touches on something. |
How the words complete and finish can be used in sentences
- I have completed my homework.
- The painter finished painting the room.
- The marathon runner completed the race in record time.
- The chef finished the meal with a delicious dessert.
- The project is complete, but there are still some details that need to be finished.
