What is the Difference Between Complete and Finish?

The difference between "complete" and "finish" lies in their focus and emphasis when referring to the final stage of a task or activity:

• Complete: This verb focuses on the entirety or thoroughness of the task or process, ensuring that nothing is left to do. It implies making something whole or perfect. Some examples include completing a bachelor's degree, reading a series of books, or filling in all the necessary information for a form.
• Finish: This verb 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.

While both words share a similar meaning of "coming to an end," "complete" emphasizes the overall entirety of the task, whereas "finish" emphasizes the final step taken to fulfill the task. However, the two verbs can sometimes be interchangeable, depending on the context.

Comparative Table: Complete vs Finish

The difference between "complete" and "finish" can be summarized as follows:

In summary, "complete" refers to the successful execution or accomplishment of a task or process, while "finish" refers to the end or conclusion of a task or process.