Completed vs. Finished

Attribute	Completed	Finished
Definition	Having been done or achieved	Having come to an end or been completed
Usage	Commonly used in various contexts	Commonly used in various contexts
Implication	Indicates that a task or goal has been accomplished	Indicates that a task or process has reached its conclusion
Time Frame	Can refer to any point in the past, present, or future	Usually refers to the past or present
Emphasis	Focuses on the action or effort put into completing something	Focuses on the state of being done or concluded
Associated Verbs	Complete, accomplish, fulfill	Finish, conclude, end

Introduction

When it comes to discussing the attributes of "completed" and "finished," it is important to understand that these two words are often used interchangeably in everyday language. However, upon closer examination, there are subtle differences that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the nuances of these terms and shed light on their unique attributes.

Definition and Usage

Let's start by defining the terms "completed" and "finished." Both words refer to the state of something being done or brought to a conclusion. However, their usage and connotations differ slightly.

Completed

The term "completed" generally implies that a task or activity has been finished, accomplished, or fulfilled. It suggests that all the necessary steps or actions have been taken to reach a desired outcome. When something is completed, it often indicates a sense of achievement or success. For example, when a project is completed, it means that all the required tasks have been finished, and the project is ready for evaluation or implementation.

Furthermore, "completed" can also refer to the act of making something whole or perfect. It implies that all the necessary components or elements have been included or integrated. For instance, a completed puzzle signifies that all the pieces have been correctly assembled, resulting in a coherent and unified whole.

Finished

On the other hand, the term "finished" typically suggests the end of a process or the absence of further actions. It implies that no additional work or effort is required. When something is finished, it often indicates a sense of closure or finality. For example, when a book is finished, it means that the writing process has come to an end, and the manuscript is ready for publication.

Moreover, "finished" can also refer to the state of being exhausted or depleted. It implies that all available resources or options have been utilized. For instance, when a runner finishes a race, it means that they have crossed the finish line and have given their all, leaving nothing more to give.

Comparison

While both "completed" and "finished" share similarities in terms of denoting the conclusion of a task or activity, there are distinct differences in their connotations and usage.

1. Sense of Achievement

When something is completed, it often carries a sense of accomplishment or success. The focus is on reaching a goal or objective and fulfilling all the necessary requirements. On the other hand, when something is finished, the emphasis is more on the end of a process or the absence of further actions. It signifies the completion of a task without necessarily implying a sense of achievement.

2. Wholeness and Perfection

The term "completed" suggests the idea of making something whole or perfect. It implies that all the necessary components or elements have been included or integrated. In contrast, "finished" does not necessarily imply the same level of completeness or perfection. It focuses more on the absence of further actions rather than the state of being whole or perfect.

3. Finality and Exhaustion

When something is finished, it often carries a sense of finality or closure. It suggests that no additional work or effort is required. On the other hand, "completed" does not necessarily imply the same level of finality. It can be used to describe the conclusion of a task or activity without indicating that no further actions are possible. Additionally, "finished" can also refer to the state of being exhausted or depleted, while "completed" does not carry the same connotation.

Examples

To further illustrate the differences between "completed" and "finished," let's consider a few examples:

1. Cooking a Meal

When you cook a meal, you go through various steps such as chopping ingredients, cooking them, and plating the final dish. Once all the steps are done, and the dish is ready to be served, it can be considered "completed." However, if you say the meal is "finished," it implies that it has been consumed or there is no more left to eat.

2. Writing a Report

When you write a report, you go through the process of researching, outlining, drafting, and revising. Once you have gone through all these steps and have a final version ready for submission, the report can be considered "completed." However, if you say the report is "finished," it suggests that you have no further plans to work on it or make any changes.

3. Building a House

When constructing a house, there are numerous stages involved, including designing, laying the foundation, erecting the structure, and completing the interior. Once all these stages are finished, and the house is ready for occupancy, it can be considered "completed." However, if you say the house is "finished," it implies that all the necessary finishing touches, such as painting, flooring, and furnishing, have been done.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while "completed" and "finished" are often used interchangeably, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. "Completed" carries a sense of achievement, wholeness, and the possibility of further actions, while "finished" emphasizes finality, exhaustion, and the absence of further actions. Understanding these nuances can help us use these terms more accurately and effectively in our daily communication.