What is supplementary? Pronunciation and usage in English

supplementary means . Learn how to pronounce and use supplementary through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of supplementary

supplementaryadjective

/ˌsʌplɪˈmentri//ˌsʌplɪˈmentri/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "supplementary." It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown with phonetic approximations and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (Closest to how a native speaker would say it):

/səˈplémen(t)ˌɛri/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • sə - Like "suh" - short and quick.
  • plémen - This is the trickiest part. Think of it as:
    • ple - Like "plea" (as in "let me").
    • men - As in "men" – a short, sharp "n" sound.
    • The stress is on the second syllable ("ple"). The 'é' represents a slightly rising tone – hold the "e" sound a little longer than you would if it weren't there.
  • (t) - This is a schwa sound. It's a very weak "uh" sound and is often dropped in casual speech. It's placed after the "men." You can pronounce it, but it's often silent.
  • ɛri – Just like "air" – a simple "er" sound.

2. Putting it together – A more conversational guide:

Here’s a way to say it that sounds natural:

"sue-pleh-ment-er-ee"

3. Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: As mentioned above, the emphasis is on the second syllable ("ple").
  • "Supple" sound: Focus on making the "ple" sound distinct. Don’t let it blend into the next syllable.
  • The 't' sound: Often it’s silent, but if you want to be precise, say a very light "t" after "men."
  • Don’t over-emphasize the “s”: The "s" is a subtle initial sound.

4. Listen to Examples:

The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some resources:

To help me tailor my explanation further, could you tell me:

  • Are you a beginner English learner, or do you have some experience with English pronunciation?

Usage and examples with the word supplementary in English

Let's break down how to use the word "supplementary." It's a slightly more formal word than "extra" or "additional," and it carries a specific nuance.

1. Core Meaning:

At its heart, "supplementary" means providing something extra to complete or enhance something already existing. It suggests that the add-on isn't essential but adds value.

2. Common Uses & Examples:

  • Documents/Information: This is perhaps the most frequent use.

    • "The report includes supplementary data to support the main findings." (More informative than "extra data.")
    • "Please read the supplementary handbook for detailed instructions." (Adding to the main handbook.)
    • "We’ve provided supplementary materials for your review." (Further support/information)

  • Nutrition: (Most common usage today)

    • “A multivitamin is a good supplementary source of vitamins and minerals.” (Adding to a healthy diet, not replacing it.)
    • “He takes a protein shake as a supplementary meal.” (To top up protein intake)

  • Education:

    • “The teacher provided supplementary exercises for students struggling with the material.” (Extra practice to support learning.)
    • “He's taking a supplementary course in history to broaden his knowledge." (Adding another layer to existing knowledge)

  • Equipment/Hardware:

    • "The car came with a supplementary GPS system." (An extra GPS to help with navigation)
    • "We purchased a supplementary battery for our camping trip." (An additional battery for longer use)

  • Services/Support:

    • "For further assistance, please contact our supplementary customer support team.” (Support beyond the main team.)

3. Key Differences & When to Use It:

  • "Additional" is a broader term. It simply means "more." “We need additional information.”
  • "Supplementary" implies that the extra thing completes or enhances what's already present. It suggests a relationship of support or enrichment.

4. Grammatical Usage:

  • It’s usually an adjective – describing something.
    • “Supplementary information”
    • “A supplementary fee”

5. Tone:

"Supplementary" sounds more formal and professional than words like "extra" or "additional." It’s often used in business reports, legal documents, and academic writing.

Here’s a quick table to summarize:

Word Meaning Tone Example
Additional More Neutral We need additional time.
Supplementary Completing/Enhancing Formal The report included supplementary data.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about using "supplementary" in? (e.g., writing a report, talking about diet, describing a product?)

Synonyms for the word supplementary

Practice with vocabulary supplementary

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research team included a dedicated section for ______ data, ensuring all minor observations were recorded.
  2. Our company provides ______ health benefits, such as dental and vision plans, in addition to the standard medical coverage.
  3. Strong communication skills are ______ for effective team collaboration and project success.
  4. Attending the advanced workshop is entirely ______, though highly recommended for those looking to specialize further.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The project manager requested a document containing details that expanded on the main report's conclusions. a) concise b) primary c) supplementary d) mandatory
  2. Beyond the core curriculum, the university offers numerous modules and workshops designed to deepen understanding or introduce new areas of study. a) principal b) supplementary c) fundamental d) optional e) complementary
  3. Customers can purchase extended warranty plans for their new electronics, which are not part of the standard package. a) essential b) primary c) supplementary d) inherent
  4. For optimal health, a balanced diet is ______ to regular exercise. a) contradictory b) integral c) independent d) redundant
  5. Please provide ______ information regarding your previous work experience and any relevant certifications. a) ultimate b) comprehensive c) further d) primary

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The architect provided extra drawings to clarify the complex structural details. Rewrite using "supplementary" or a related word form.
  2. Many athletes take vitamins and minerals to add to their regular diet. Rewrite using "supplementary" or a related word form.
  3. Good communication is a vital part of effective team management. Rewrite using a suitable replacement word (do NOT use "supplementary" or its forms).

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. supplementary
  2. supplementary
  3. essential
  4. optional

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) supplementary
  2. b) supplementary, d) optional, e) complementary
  3. c) supplementary
  4. b) integral
  5. c) further

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The architect provided supplementary drawings to clarify the complex structural details.
  2. Many athletes take vitamins and minerals to supplement their regular diet.
  3. Good communication is an integral part of effective team management.

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