it only constitutes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it only constitutes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the nature or extent of something, indicating that it is limited to a specific definition or category. Example: "In this context, it only constitutes a minor violation of the rules."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But it only constitutes a third in Thucydides' formula.

Huffington Post

Although data did not contain information on over-the-counter medication, it only constitutes a minor part of the total drug consumption in Denmark, 7 and since we were interested in drugs as an indicator of health status, it could be argued that the most valid approach is to focus on drugs that require a formal medical indication (ie, prescription).

BMJ Open

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

For instance, the keywords developmental biology gave an 8.9 times increase, but at the same time it only constituted 0.2% of all reviews in this critical period.

Plosone

This synthesized dye results to be a protic ionic liquid, since it is a viscous liquid at room temperature and, it is only constituted by ions.

Dyes and Pigments

It was only constituted after Litvinenko's widow appealed (at her own and charitable expense) against a decision by the Home Secretary.

Independent

As he explained, whenever he would fall on the ice, it would only constitute one second of his four-minute performance.

Huffington Post

However, it is a brilliant work, exuberant of wit and irony, that not only constitutes a biographical landmark but is also the first piece of modern English prose.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mobile advertising still only constitutes a small part of such companies' total revenues; however it is a piece of the pie that is constantly growing.

Huffington Post

However, physical goods aren't a large part of Roblox revenues, nor is advertising, which only constitutes around 5percentt of revenue.

TechCrunch

The number of species with less than 10 records only constitutes 14.29% of the species analyzed (8,307 species).

Forest Ecosystems

The wind energy only constitutes about 3% of the total capacity, while this percentage is 30% in Denmark.

Environmental Systems Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it only constitutes" to accurately define the extent or proportion of something within a larger context. Ensure the statement is precise and not misleading about the overall significance.

Common error

Avoid using "it only constitutes" when describing something that has a more significant impact than the phrase suggests. For example, if something constitutes a small part but has major consequences, this phrase might downplay its importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it only constitutes" functions as a verbal phrase that describes the composition or proportion of something within a larger context. It expresses the idea that something is just a part of a larger whole, limiting the extent or influence. This aligns with Ludwig AI's analysis and the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it only constitutes" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate that something forms a limited part of a larger whole. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in various contexts, notably science and news media. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the proportion and significance you intend to convey, avoiding overstatement or understatement. The provided alternatives, such as "it merely forms" or "it simply represents", can offer nuanced variations to suit specific contexts. Remember to check for any errors and focus on clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it partly comprises

The term "comprises" is a more formal equivalent to "constitutes", indicating that something is included but not exclusively.

it partially consists of

This phrase highlights the composition aspect, indicating that something is made up of certain elements.

it solely composes

Similar to "comprises" but emphasizing the aspect of singular construction.

it merely forms

This alternative uses "forms" instead of "constitutes", suggesting a less formal composition.

it only accounts for

This alternative emphasizes numerical proportion or percentage of the whole.

it simply represents

Using "represents" emphasizes that something is symbolic or indicative rather than a physical part.

it just makes up

This is a more informal and direct way of saying something is a component of a larger entity.

it uniquely represents

This emphasizes that something represents uniquely within a particular context. This uniqueness is not implied by the original query.

it solely encompasses

This indicates that something is entirely included within certain boundaries, offering a sense of completeness.

it exclusively embodies

Using "embodies" suggests that something is the sole representation of a particular idea or quality, providing a more specific meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "it only constitutes" in a sentence?

Use "it only constitutes" to specify that something forms a part of a larger whole, emphasizing that it's not the entirety. For example, "While renewable energy is growing, "it only constitutes" a small percentage of the total energy supply".

What are some alternatives to "it only constitutes"?

You can use alternatives like "it merely forms", "it simply represents", or "it partly comprises" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "it only constitutes a small part"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase ""it only constitutes"" indicates that something is just a component of a larger entity, and adding "a small part" further specifies its limited significance.

What's the difference between "it only constitutes" and "it solely comprises"?

"It only constitutes" implies that something is a part of a whole, while "it solely comprises" suggests that something includes or is made up of exclusively certain elements, leaving nothing else.