separate elements

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "separate elements" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing distinct parts or components of a whole, often in contexts like mathematics, programming, or analysis. Example: "In the recipe, you need to combine the separate elements to create the final dish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Smart phones, for example, contain more than 40 separate elements.

The Guardian

The word synthesize means to produce by combining separate elements.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The EU directive groups them in 19 separate fields most of which include separate elements.

The Guardian

There are two separate elements to the challenge that Mr. Steel and his board are facing.

The New York Times - Arts

There are many separate elements that make up a complete column and entablature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The separate elements of the composition — text, line art, spot color, and ink wash — are combined in Photoshop.

The New Yorker

The whole hundred-and-fifty-foot monolith, he meant, cast in many separate elements, which would remain separate and unassembled.

The New Yorker

No sleight of hand; the separate elements of Wallinger's works are always exposed, one feels, as a matter of principle.

The Guardian - Arts

My stories come together when separate elements that I'm obsessed by start to speak to each other.

The New Yorker

"People need a simple way to compare all the separate elements of a bank account," said Andrew Hagger of Moneycomms.

Independent

In fact their germ, though undeveloped, is to be found in two separate elements in his thinking.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex system, use "separate elements" to clearly identify individual components before explaining how they interact.

Common error

Avoid using "separate elements" when simply referring to parts of a whole without emphasizing their distinction or potential for independent function. For example, don't say "the separate elements of a car, like the engine and tires", if you are just referring to the car parts, without emphasizing their separation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "separate elements" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to individual components or parts that are distinct and can be considered independently. This aligns with Ludwig's assessment that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "separate elements" is grammatically correct and widely used across various domains. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a versatile term for describing distinct components of a whole. It appears most frequently in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias, maintaining a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, remember to emphasize the distinct nature of each part and avoid redundancy. For alternatives, consider "distinct components" or "individual parts" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinct components

Emphasizes the individuality and recognizability of each element.

individual parts

Highlights the singularity and separateness of each part.

discrete units

Focuses on the clear boundaries and independence of each unit.

independent segments

Stresses the self-governing nature and division into segments.

isolated constituents

Suggests a level of detachment and that the constituents are part of a whole.

differentiated factors

Highlights that the factors are distinguishable and contribute to a larger outcome.

autonomous portions

Emphasizes the self-contained and independent nature of each portion.

segregated pieces

Suggests a deliberate separation or division into distinct pieces.

unique entities

Focuses on the individuality and distinct existence of each entity.

unconnected fragments

Highlights the lack of relationship or cohesion between the fragments.

FAQs

How can I use "separate elements" in a sentence?

You can use "separate elements" to describe distinct components of a system, structure, or idea. For example, "The success of the project depended on the careful management of its "separate elements"."

What are some alternatives to "separate elements"?

Alternatives to "separate elements" include "distinct components", "individual parts", and "discrete units", each emphasizing different aspects of separateness.

When is it appropriate to use "separate elements" instead of "components"?

"Separate elements" is suitable when highlighting the independence or distinct nature of each part. "Components" may be more appropriate when emphasizing their role as contributing parts of a unified whole.

How does the meaning of "separate elements" differ from "isolated constituents"?

"Separate elements" generally refers to distinct parts within a system. "Isolated constituents" suggests these parts are not only distinct but also disconnected or examined in isolation from their original context.