it consists in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it consists in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the essential nature or components of something, often in a formal or academic context. Example: "The success of the project consists in the collaboration of all team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It consists, in its entirety, of six full-page portraits of himself.

The New York Times

It consists, in its pure medieval form, of six stanzas of blank verse, each of six lines—hence the name.

Britannica

Its common description is that it consists in the juxtaposition of 5 layers (Fig. 1 ) [ 1].

Biomedical Optics Express

It consists in freeing a behavior from its genetic inscription within a given sphere (predatory activity, hunting).

HuffPost

It consists in part of the arts.

The New York Times - Arts

It consists in tables, maps, and diagrams.

Ocean & Coastal Management

It consists in choosing between the disastrous and the unpalatable".

The New York Times

It consists in speech abnormalities caused by neuromuscular disorders.

Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología

It consists in part of a relief depicting the scene a moment after the shooting.

The Guardian - Books

It consists in monitoring DNA migration in a viscoelastic fluid using electro-hydrodynamic bi-directional actuation.

Nature

A natural conception of scientific progress is that it consists in the accumulation of truth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it consists in" when you want to clearly define the essential elements or actions that constitute a larger concept or process. Ensure that the elements you list are indeed the core components.

Common error

While "it consists in" is grammatically sound, overuse can make writing sound overly formal. Consider simpler alternatives like "it involves" or "it includes" for a more accessible tone when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it consists in" functions as a linking verb phrase that introduces a definition or explanation of the essential elements or nature of something. It connects a subject with its defining characteristic or component. Ludwig's examples show it used across various subject areas to give the essential elements of the subject at hand.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

17%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it consists in" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, especially in formal and scientific contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to define or explain the core components or nature of something. While versatile, it is essential to be mindful of the tone and consider more accessible alternatives in less formal settings. Remember to use it when you want to provide a clear, specific description of the essential elements or actions of a particular subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is composed of

This alternative directly emphasizes the components that make up something.

it is made up of

Similar to 'it is composed of', this phrase highlights the constituent parts.

it involves

This suggests that something includes or necessitates specific actions or elements.

it includes

This indicates that something contains certain components or features.

it comprises

A more formal alternative to 'it is composed of', indicating the parts that form a whole.

it is defined by

This emphasizes the characteristics that essentially determine what something is.

it features

This alternative points out specific characteristics or elements of something.

it embodies

Suggests that something is a tangible representation or example of something else.

it centers on

Highlights the core focus or main subject of something.

it hinges on

This emphasizes the crucial aspect upon which something depends.

FAQs

How do I use "it consists in" in a sentence?

Use "it consists in" to define or describe what something is fundamentally composed of. For example, "Success in this role "it consists in" managing the team effectively and meeting deadlines."

What are some alternatives to "it consists in"?

You can use alternatives like "it involves", "it includes", or "it comprises" depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "it consists of" instead of "it consists in"?

While "it consists in" is correct, "it consists of" is more common. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "It consists in" often highlights the core action or principle, while "it consists of" focuses on the components.

What's the difference between "it consists in" and "it lies in"?

"It consists in" specifies the components or actions that make up something, while "it lies in" suggests the key factor or reason for something. For example, "The solution it lies in the data analysis", implying that the solution is found within that analysis.