Composed of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "composed of" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate the parts or elements that make up something or someone. Example: The committee was composed of seven members from different departments within the company.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Countries are composed of people.

The New York Times

It is composed of debt.

The New York Times

Both are composed of carbon.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What are they composed of?

The New York Times

The innermost layer is composed of silicon.

The Economist

Shield volcanoes are usually composed of basalt.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It seems composed of random pieces.

The New York Times - Arts

3. Churches composed of believers only.

Encyclopedia Britannica

University education is composed of three levels.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The calyx is composed of fused sepals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The island is mainly composed of marble.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "composed of" to clearly indicate the constituent parts or elements of a whole. For example, "The team is "composed of" experts from various fields".

Common error

Avoid using "composed of" when a simpler verb like "is" or "contains" would suffice. For example, instead of "The book is "composed of" ten chapters", say "The book contains ten chapters".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "composed of" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun. It describes the elements, parts, or ingredients that constitute a whole. This is supported by Ludwig, which shows its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

13%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "composed of" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to describe the makeup of something, indicating its constituent parts. According to Ludwig, it is correct and commonly used across various domains. While there are alternatives such as "made up of" and "consisting of", "composed of" maintains a level of formality suitable for both neutral and professional contexts. Be mindful of redundancy and opt for simpler verbs when appropriate. The analysis of Ludwig shows its prevalence in News & Media and Encyclopedias, highlighting its broad applicability and acceptance in formal writing. Therefore, use "composed of" to provide clarity and detail regarding the composition of subjects while being mindful of context and alternative phrasings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Made up of

Indicates the elements or ingredients that constitute something, similar to "composed of".

Consisting of

Emphasizes the elements that constitute a whole, closely mirroring the meaning of "composed of".

Comprises

A more formal synonym, indicating the elements that make up a whole, similar in meaning to "composed of".

Formed from

Highlights the materials or components used to create something, similar to "composed of".

Containing

Focuses on what is included within something, akin to specifying the parts that "composed of".

Built from

Implies a structured assembly of elements, similar to how components are "composed of".

Constructed of

Indicates the materials used in a structured building process, mirroring the composition aspect of "composed of".

Features

Highlights the key components or elements present, similar to describing what something is "composed of".

Includes

Focuses on the inclusion of specific elements, similar to specifying components that "composed of".

Embodies

Highlights the essential characteristics or elements, conveying the idea of what constitutes something, similar to "composed of".

FAQs

How can I use "composed of" in a sentence?

Use "composed of" to indicate what elements or parts make up something. For example, "The committee was "composed of" members from different departments".

What's an alternative to saying "composed of"?

You can use alternatives like "made up of", "consisting of", or "comprises" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "comprised of" instead of "composed of"?

While "comprised of" is sometimes used, it's generally considered less formal and can be perceived as incorrect by some. "Composed of" or simply "comprises" are often preferred. Consider that comprises means includes or contains; while composed means constitute or made up of. They have a different, though similar, meaning.

What is the difference between "composed of" and "constituted by"?

"Composed of" means that something is made up of certain parts or elements. "Constituted by" emphasizes that something is established or created by certain elements. The phrase "constituted by" suggests a more foundational or defining relationship.