Understanding the Opposite of Complemented

This question asks us to identify the word that means the opposite of "complemented" based on its usage in the provided passage. Let's look at how the word is used:

The passage states, "In short, technical skills will need to be complemented by strong social and collaboration skills in the workplace."

In this context, "complemented" means to add to something to make it better or more complete. It suggests enhancement or going well together.

Analyzing the Meaning of Complemented

When one thing complements another, it typically:

• Enhances its qualities
• Completes it
• Goes well with it
• Adds to its value

For example, if a strong technical skill is complemented by good social skills, the social skills make the technical skills more effective or valuable in the workplace.

Evaluating the Given Options

Let's examine each option to find the word that means the opposite of "complemented":

• Praised: To express approval or admiration. This is not the opposite of complementing. Something can be praised while also complementing something else.
• Supported: To give assistance or encouragement. While related to working together, "supported" doesn't directly oppose "complemented." Skills can both support and complement each other.
• Contrasted: To compare by noting differences; to be different from. When things contrast, they stand apart or are dissimilar, which is the opposite of how complementing works where things go well together or enhance each other.
• Admired: To regard with respect or warm approval. Similar to "praised," this is about positive regard, not about how one thing relates to another in terms of completion or enhancement.
• Completed: To finish or bring to an end. While "complemented" can imply completion, "completed" itself isn't the direct opposite. The opposite of completing something would be leaving it unfinished, which isn't offered as an option. "Contrasted" better captures the idea of being different rather than going well together.

Identifying the Correct Antonym

Based on the analysis, "contrasted" is the word that best represents the opposite of "complemented." If technical skills are complemented by social skills (meaning they enhance each other), then technical skills contrasted with social skills would mean they are different or do not enhance each other.

Therefore, the word that means the opposite of complemented is Contrasted.