what it constitutes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what it constitutes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the nature, components, or definition of something. Example: "To understand the concept fully, we must analyze what it constitutes in various contexts."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Only later might you wonder what the experience was about and what it constitutes as art.

The New Yorker

This article briefly describes what a safety management system is, why it is important for an organization, what it constitutes, how it can be conceptualized, and what is the historical context of such systems.

Reference Module in Chemistry, Molecular Sciences and Chemical Engineering

Without a good common understanding of what theory is, what it constitutes in SE research, and the various roles it can play in SE research, it is difficult to appreciate how theory building can help to strengthen SE research.

Science of Computer Programming

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

There are only a finite number of states, and the way they link up what the scanner sees to what it does constitutes the machine's program.

The New Yorker

Throughout The Seagull, the characters talk about happiness and of what it's constituted.

Huffington Post

From about 1918 on, Watsuji's focus became the articulation of what it is that constitutes the Japanese spirit.

SEP

This week (the beginning of Mar). the White House issued a paper setting forth what it views as constituting an impeachable offense...

The New Yorker

This week (the beginning of Mar). the White House issued a paper setting forth what it views as constituting an impeachable offense..

The New Yorker

The UN is calling for an independent investigation into what it says could constitute war crimes.

BBC

Or rather, how much it constitutes what we call society.

Huffington Post

TAU varies across studies, and there seem to be inconsistencies regarding what kind of control it constitutes.

Addiction

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what it constitutes" when you want to explore the essential elements or components that form a concept or entity.

Common error

Avoid using "what it constitutes" in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "what it is" or "what it's made of" for everyday clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what it constitutes" functions as an interrogative clause, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI suggests that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "what it constitutes" is a grammatically sound and formal way to inquire about the essential elements of something. As indicated by Ludwig, while its use is correct, it is relatively rare, appearing mostly in scientific and news contexts. For more casual settings, consider alternatives like "what it is" or "what it's made of". Remember to use this phrase when seeking a deep understanding of the underlying components rather than a superficial description.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what it comprises

Replaces 'constitutes' with 'comprises', focusing on the elements that make up something.

what it consists of

Emphasizes the components or elements included in something.

what it embodies

Focuses on the abstract qualities or principles that something represents.

what it entails

Highlights the necessary consequences or conditions of something.

what it involves

Similar to 'entails', but focuses on the activities or actions required.

what it encompasses

Stresses the scope or range of something.

what it represents

Focuses on the symbolic meaning or significance of something.

what it is defined by

Shifts the focus to the defining characteristics of something.

what its components are

Directly asks about the elements that form the whole.

what its essence is

Seeks the fundamental nature or core quality of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "what it constitutes" to inquire about the elements or characteristics that define something, as in, "The article examines "what it constitutes" a safety management system".

What are some alternatives to "what it constitutes"?

Alternatives include phrases like "what it comprises", "what it consists of", or "what it entails", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "what it constitutes" formal or informal?

"What it constitutes" leans towards the formal side. In informal settings, you might prefer saying "what it is" or "what makes it up".

What's the difference between "what it constitutes" and "what it includes"?

"What it constitutes" suggests a deeper exploration of the essential components, while "what it includes" simply lists the items contained. The first looks for essences, the second for components.