CONSTITUENT Synonyms: 82 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'constituent' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of constituent are component , element , and ingredient . While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," constituent stresses its essential and formative character. // the constituents of a chemical compound

Q: How are the words 'component' and 'constituent' related?

Both component and constituent may designate any of the substances (whether elements or compounds) or the qualities that enter into the makeup of a complex product; component stresses its separate entity or distinguishable character. // the components of a stereo system

Q: When is it sensible to use 'element' instead of 'constituent'?

While the synonyms element and constituent are close in meaning, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity. // the basic elements of geometry

Q: When is 'ingredient' a more appropriate choice than 'constituent'?

Although the words ingredient and constituent have much in common, ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture. // the ingredients of a cocktail

constituent 1 of 2

noun

kən-ˈstich-wənt

Definition of constituent next

as in member

one of the parts that make up a whole the soil contained all of the necessary constituents for growing crops

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

constituent

2 of 2

adjective

as in component

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constituent distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of constituent are component, element, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

How are the words component and constituent related?

Both component and constituent may designate any of the substances (whether elements or compounds) or the qualities that enter into the makeup of a complex product; component stresses its separate entity or distinguishable character.

the components of a stereo system

When is it sensible to use element instead of constituent?

While the synonyms element and constituent are close in meaning, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

When is ingredient a more appropriate choice than constituent?

Although the words ingredient and constituent have much in common, ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of constituent

Noun

But lawmakers have an interest in boosting direct flights to their states – for themselves and their constituents – because the airport is more convenient to downtown than Dulles International Airport, which is also managed by the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority. —

Nick Penzenstadler, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2025 Republican and Democratic lawmakers alike said their phones were ringing off the hook with concerned constituents asking for clarity over the new policy. —

Michael Wilner, Miami Herald, 29 Jan. 2025

Adjective

What are the constituent parts of a flop, and what might these missteps reveal about the relationship between audiences and public figures today? —

The New Yorker, 19 Dec. 2024 The legislation provides some exemptions from public records disclosure, including for constituent communications. —

Clara Hendrickson, Detroit Free Press, 11 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for constituent

Recent Examples of Synonyms for constituent

Noun

The states, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, argue Musk and other members of the Department of Government Efficiency are not authorized to access the Treasury Department's central payment system and could jeopardize the security of confidential information.

— Maureen Groppe, USA TODAY, 10 Feb. 2025
Both father and son were found dead, casualties of a fire that raced along at the speed of a hurricane, beyond the reach of first responders, health care providers, and family members.

— Josh Klein, New York Daily News, 9 Feb. 2025