comprises the bulk of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "comprises the bulk of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something makes up a large part of a whole or is the main component of something. Example: "The research conducted over the past year comprises the bulk of our findings in this report."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

In medusae, mesoglea comprises the bulk of the animal and forms a resilient skeleton.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The inorganic or mineral fraction, which comprises the bulk of most soils, is derived from rocks and their degradation products.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That's high praise and a reprimand for that conga-line of annoying look-at-me artistes that comprises the bulk of today's design profession.

The Guardian - Arts

In the contemporary section, which comprises the bulk of the show, it is evident that the group still attracts artists for whom representational imagery is anathema.

The New York Times

The park consists of two portions: the main portion, which comprises the bulk of the park's area, and the detached and considerably smaller Horseshoe Canyon unit.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The present metropolitan county of Greater London constitutes nearly all of the historic county of Middlesex (which comprises the bulk of Greater London north of the River Thames), parts of the historic counties of Kent, Essex, and Hertfordshire, and a large part of the historic county of Surrey.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Chadian forces are among the African troops who comprise the bulk of the peacekeepers in and around Bangui.

The Guardian

These creatures, which form the order Squamata, comprise the bulk of the Reptilia.

Britannica

Historically Democrats have focused on unskilled workers, mostly Mexicans, who also comprise the bulk of the illegal alien population.

The Guardian - Opinion

Surveillance has traditionally been done by analog, closed-circuit TV systems, which still comprise the bulk of the security market.

The New York Times

Raw commodities such as coal, rubber and palm oil comprise the bulk of Indonesia's exports.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "comprises the bulk of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the 'bulk' is being compared to. This adds clarity and precision to your writing.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "comprises the bulk of" in very informal settings can sound overly formal or stilted. Consider using simpler alternatives like "mostly" or "mainly" to maintain a natural tone in casual communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "comprises the bulk of" functions as a descriptor, indicating that a particular component constitutes the major portion of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is both correct and effective. For example, "The mesocarp comprises the bulk of the wall" shows its descriptive use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "comprises the bulk of" effectively conveys that something forms the major part of a whole. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various writing contexts. While suitable for formal and scientific writing, simpler alternatives may be preferred in casual settings. With a variety of semantically related phrases and a few usage considerations, "comprises the bulk of" remains a valuable tool for precise and descriptive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constitutes the majority of

Emphasizes a numerical superiority rather than just a substantial portion.

is largely comprised of

Similar meaning, focuses on the constituents.

makes up the greater part of

Highlights the size or extent of the portion.

forms the largest part of

Focuses on the physical or quantitative dominance of a component.

accounts for the main portion of

Stresses the proportional relationship of the component to the whole.

dominates the composition of

Highlights that one thing is the main component.

represents the lion's share of

Suggests that the component is not only large but also significant or desirable.

is primarily composed of

Highlights the composition of the whole, focusing on a dominant ingredient.

is the predominant part of

Highlights that one thing is more important.

is mostly made up of

Emphasizes the constituent elements and their relative proportions.

FAQs

What does "comprises the bulk of" mean?

It means that something constitutes the major part or largest portion of a whole. It indicates that a particular component or element makes up a significant percentage or amount of something else.

What can I say instead of "comprises the bulk of"?

You can use alternatives like "constitutes the majority of", "makes up the greater part of", or "forms the largest part of" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "comprises the bulk of" in formal writing?

Yes, it is perfectly appropriate. The phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for formal, academic, or professional contexts.

How can I ensure clarity when using "comprises the bulk of"?

Clearly define what the "bulk" is being compared to. Providing specific details or examples will make the statement more precise and easier to understand.