comprises - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
comprises Word Meanings
- to consist of; to be made up of
- to include or contain
- to be composed of elements.
comprises Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
comprises Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəmˈpraɪz/
US
/kəmˈpraɪz/
comprises Word Etymology
com- = together + prise = to seize/take. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine taking all the pieces of a puzzle and seizing them to form a complete picture.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set a handful of objects on the table and start moving them with my hands. I push this piece here, pull that one there, and shift their places until they fit in my view. I hold the pieces loosely at first, then adjust spacing and keep them in sight as I go. As the arrangement changes, I sense the whole thing forming from its parts, and all together they comprise the whole.
Real Context
Comprise is a versatile verb that signals that something is made up of smaller parts or elements. In English, the subject typically comes first and the verb is in the present tense agrees with that subject, as in The committee comprises five members. A common pitfall is using comprises with a passive phrase like is comprised of, which is considered less formal or less correct in modern English. Another nuance is the contrast with contain or include: contain emphasizes what is inside while comprise emphasizes the parts that form the whole. Learners should notice that you cannot say The set is comprised of five members in careful written English, but you can say It comprises five items.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Use comprise with an active subject; 2. Do not say is comprised of in formal writing; 3. Distinguish comprise from contain and include; 4. The whole comprises the parts, not the other way around; 5. Choose present tense for general truths; 6. For passive style, prefer is composed of or consists of.
Common Misconceptions
- Think is comprised of is equally correct as comprises.
- Believe comprise means include or contain only occasionally.
- Confuse comprise with consist of when the emphasis is on elements, not process.
- Overgeneralize to non-human subjects with random plural agreement.
- Ignore who is the whole and who are the parts in a sentence.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice active voice: The project comprises five phases.
- Compare with is composed of for passive/structural nuance.
- Use comprise with whole before parts.
- Avoid is comprised of in formal writing.
- Remember synonyms include and contain can substitute in some contexts.
- Check subject-verb agreement with plural subjects.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'comprises'?
A.Restricts
B.Divides
C.Includes
D.Separates
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'comprises' correctly.
A.The committee comprises two members.
B.The recipe comprises only a few ingredients.
C.The team comprises five players, and they lost.
D.The class comprises better students than last year.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'comprises'?
A.Requires
B.Eliminates
C.Contains
D.Reduces
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'comprises'?
A.Excludes
B.Includes
C.Encompasses
D.Encapsulates
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'comprises' is used?
A.The ingredients of a cake are diverse.
B.The audience was engaged during the presentation.
C.A good team comprises individuals with different skills.
D.The report includes various sections and topics.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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