complementary distribution

noun

Linguistics.

1. a relation such that the members of a pair or set of phones, morphs, or other linguistic units have no environment in common, as aspirated “p” and unaspirated “p” in English, the first occurring only in positions where the second does not.

Word History and Origins

Origin of complementary distribution¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

"Supported by its specialty food products manufacturing and processing units as well as its complementary distribution system we believe this will make for a well-diversified business," wrote Perri, who has a "buy" rating on Premium Brands, with a stock target price of C$15.

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