incomplete - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
incomplete Word Meanings
- not finished or whole
- lacking some part
- not having all required elements
incomplete Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
incomplete Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɪn.kəmˈpliːt/
US
/ˌɪn.kəmˈpliːt/
incomplete Word Etymology
in- = not, complete = whole. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a jigsaw puzzle missing pieces, where the picture is not yet whole.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
An incomplete item is not finished or whole; it describes something that still misses parts or elements that are expected. In English we contrast incomplete with 'complete', 'finished', and 'partial'. Incomplete highlights a gap between the current state and the intended whole, rather than a judgement about quality. This distinction matters in academic, professional, and everyday contexts, where a draft, form, or plan can be incomplete even though partial information exists. Note how we often say 'an incomplete sentence' or 'an incomplete draft' to stress the missing pieces, not necessarily a lack of ability or effort. Understanding this helps when reading forms, evaluating results, or giving feedback.
Usage Reminders
- Use incomplete for states that are not yet finished
- Differentiate incomplete from unfinished when focusing on the process
- Avoid describing people as incomplete; use other adjectives for people
- Pair with nouns like information, draft, form to show missing parts
- Add 'so far' or 'as of now' to emphasize current progress
- Check whether missing data is truly missing or just not yet provided
Common Misconceptions
- Incomplete means low quality or bad; it does not.
- Incomplete and unfinished are interchangeable in all contexts.
- If information is missing, you must always label it incomplete.
- Describing a person as incomplete is acceptable in casual speech.
- Incomplete information is always unacceptable; never use partial.
Thinking Differences
English often frames incomplete as a state of not yet finished, not a value judgment. Learn to contrast with 'unfinished' for process-focused cases and with 'missing' when emphasis is on absence of data rather than progress.
Learning Tips
- Note the distinction between state (incomplete) and process (unfinished).
- Use incomplete with nouns that can be truly missing or partial.
- Avoid describing people as incomplete.
- Pair with 'information', 'draft', or 'form' to clarify what is missing.
- Use 'so far' or 'as of now' to express progress.
- Choose incomplete vs missing based on whether the status or absence is the main focus.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'incomplete' correctly?
A.The project was complete.
B.She left her homework halfway done.
C.He filled the glass to the top.
D.The book was fully written.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'incomplete'?
A.Whole
B.Partial
C.Entire
D.Finished
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'incomplete'?
A.Whole
B.Partial
C.Fragmented
D.Partial
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would you describe something as 'incomplete'?
A.A puzzle missing a few pieces
B.A fully cooked meal
C.An organized room
D.A completed jigsaw puzzle
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