constituent 1 of 2

constituent

2 of 2

adjective

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

Examples 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
Advertisement Arcadia Mayor Michael Cao, who has heard repeatedly from constituents irate about smash-and-grabs, the price of groceries and other problems a part-time suburban politician is ill-equipped to address, expected the move away from the Democratic Party. Rebecca Ellis, Los Angeles Times, 10 Dec. 2024 But, facing pressure from advocacy groups and constituents in debt, Biden opted to go further. Rachel Barber, The Courier-Journal, 9 Dec. 2024
Adjective
The constituent parts shine more brightly, however, when the drink is poured straight-up or on the rocks. Michael Barnes, Austin American-Statesman, 22 Nov. 2024 Classic Bordeaux profile here that could be right or left bank because of the constituent percentages of grapes—rounded from the Merlot and taut with tannins from the Cabernet. Tom Mullen, Forbes, 29 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for constituent 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constituent
Noun
  • In exchange, Trump has included Kennedy as member of his transition team and now the potential lead health official in his second White House term.
    Sudiksha Kochi, USA TODAY, 18 Dec. 2024
  • Connolly, 74, defeated 35-year-old Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to become the ranking member of the powerful committee.
    Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 17 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • And as Golosio and his team knew, an ANN designed around a multi-component working memory model could be a powerful tool for processing and creating human-like communication.
    Ben Thomas, Discover Magazine, 12 Nov. 2015
  • Perceptual convergence of multi-component mixtures in olfaction implies an olfactory white.
    Ed Yong, Discover Magazine, 20 Nov. 2012
Noun
  • This should include everyone—from suppliers of ingredients and packaging to the manufacturers of goods and from design agencies to the third-party distributors and retailers that sell your products and services.
    Santhi Ramesh, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024
  • Otherwise, its ingredients list is rounded out by sugar, cocoa butter, cocoa powder, and soy lecithin, an emulsifier.
    Sam Stone, Bon Appétit, 16 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Accountability for results at the individual and team levels.
    Greg Orme, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
  • To the extent that a reader has any questions regarding the applicability of any specific issue discussed above to his/her individual situation, he/she is encouraged to consult with the professional advisor of his/her choosing, including a tax advisor and/or attorney.
    Amy Wagner and Steve Hruby, The Enquirer, 11 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • The league also argues the songs, or at least elements of those songs, are in the public domain.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 7 Dec. 2024
  • Consider the look of your tree and home when determining the right base elements for your tree.
    Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • However, with more people coming into contact and working together than ever, one factor can still present a significant barrier: language.
    Molly Peck, USA TODAY, 12 Dec. 2024
  • For 2024, the calculation divides your 2023 pretax balance by an IRS life expectancy factor.
    Kate Dore, CFP®, CNBC, 11 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near constituent

Cite this Entry

“Constituent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constituent. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on constituent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!