compose
verb
to make up (parts form the whole)
“Fifty states compose the union.”
Easily mixed meanings
compose vs comprise
The whole comprises the parts; the parts compose the whole. Careful writers avoid "comprised of".
comprise
verb
to consist of (whole contains parts)
“The union comprises fifty states.”
Try it: which word fits?
Drop each word into the blank. The explanation tells you why one works and the other doesn't.
The team ______ six players.
Sentence 1 of 2
Fresh practice sentences
Five new sentences written for you by AI each time you ask. Pick the right word for each blank.
Questions about compose vs comprise
What is the difference between compose and comprise?
The whole comprises the parts; the parts compose the whole. Careful writers avoid "comprised of".
How do I remember compose vs comprise?
Comprise = "contains". If "contains" fits, comprise is right, and no "of" follows it.
Are there exceptions?
"Is comprised of" is now very common and accepted by Merriam-Webster, but many editors still change it to "is composed of" or "comprises".
Still unsure?
Paste your own sentence and the tutor will explain which word it needs, and why.