B2verbformal10K+

Comprise

UK /["/kəmˈpraɪz/","/kəmˈpraɪzɪz/","/kəmˈpraɪzd/","/kəmˈpraɪzɪŋ/"]/US /["/kəmˈpraɪz/","/kəmˈpraɪzɪz/","/kəmˈpraɪzd/","/kəmˈpraɪzɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to have somebody/something as parts or members

In simple words: to be made up of or include something.

Examples

  • The collection comprises 327 paintings.
  • a book comprising eight short stories
  • The committee is comprised of representatives from both the public and private sectors.
  • Older people comprise a large proportion of those living in poverty.

Usage notes

Often used in academic or formal contexts. Use 'comprise' to indicate the whole that consists of parts. Avoid using it interchangeably with 'compose' which has a different grammatical structure.

Grammar pattern

comprise + object

Memory hint

Think of 'comprise' as 'com-prise' – a whole that prizes its parts.

Collocations

  • comprise a majority
  • comprise several elements
  • comprise the group
  • comprise components
  • comprise various aspects

Synonyms

  • consist of

Antonyms

  • exclude
  • omit
  • leave out

Common mistakes

  • Using 'comprised of' instead of 'comprise'.
  • Confusing with 'compose' and its structure.
  • Incorrectly using it in informal contexts.