Finish vs. Complete

Both verbs mean to bring something to an end but they focus on different aspects of ending a task. Follow the lesson to find out about their difference.

What is the difference between 'finish' and 'complete'?

'Finish' and 'complete' are both concerned with the final stage of a task or activity. However, while 'finish' emphasizes the final step taken to fulfil the task, 'complete' focuses on entirety of the task and ensuring that nothing is left to do. This lesson will discuss the difference between these two verbs.

Difference in Focus

'Finish' refers to reaching the end or final stage of something, typically a task, activity, or process. It implies bringing something to completion, concluding the remaining steps, or achieving the final result. 'Finish' often focuses on the final action or step required to complete a task or reach a goal. 'Complete' also means to accomplish or fulfill something, but it focuses more on the overall entirety or thoroughness of the task or process and ensuring that all necessary parts or elements are included and nothing is left to do or add. It is typically used when the task has taken a long time to be fulfilled. Here are some examples:

I need to finish reading the last chapter of the book before tomorrow's book club meeting.

She only has a few more stitches to finish sewing the dress.

They need one more week to complete the construction project.

He needs to complete his training before he can start working at the new job.

He needs to finish his training before he can start working at the new job.

The two verbs can be interchangeable. However, 'finish' emphasizes doing the final step of a task while 'complete' emphasizes leaving nothing left to be done.

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