constituent 1 of 2

constituent

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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

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
Latino Republican lawmakers who approve of President Donald Trump are toeing a fine line between supporting his immigration crackdown and trying to convince their immigrant constituents that they won’t get caught up in the process. Nicole Acevedo, NBC News, 15 Feb. 2025 Editors’ Picks 36 Hours in Guadalajara, Mexico Even on an issue that has infuriated some of his constituents in India, Mr. Modi sought to placate Mr. Trump. Maggie Haberman, New York Times, 14 Feb. 2025
Adjective
This chemically rearranges seawater molecules (hydrogen, oxygen, and sodium chloride) based on their constituent ions’ charge, resulting in the production of an acid (hydrochloric acid) and a base (sodium hydroxide). IEEE Spectrum, 26 Dec. 2024 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 See All Example Sentences for constituent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constituent
Noun
  • Fact check: No, Sen. Warren didn’t say citizens shouldn’t know about government spending The agency did not, however, refer scores of members of Congress to the IRS to be audited.
    Joedy McCreary, USA TODAY, 22 Feb. 2025
  • This case is about the right to attend White House press events, like presidential Q&As in the Oval Office, when they are made open to other press pool members.
    Brian Stelter, CNN, 21 Feb. 2025
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
  • Others only think of the fruit as an ingredient in margaritas or key lime pie.
    Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 20 Feb. 2025
  • Turmeric Turmeric is a key ingredient for centenarians in some Blue Zones, often included in stews, soups, and teas.
    Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, Health, 20 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Lawyers for the Democratic attorneys general argued there was no effort to remove or redact private individual information and no evidence that DOGE staff were given proper training on how to handle such sensitive data.
    FATIMA HUSSEIN AND JOSH BOAK THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, arkansasonline.com, 15 Feb. 2025
  • Jones and Redgrave give delicate and rich performances as Fish and Poinsettia: two L.A. move-ins with their own individual delusions.
    J. Kim Murphy, Variety, 15 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • The episode featured all the elements of the new political order.
    Jonathan Blitzer, The New Yorker, 23 Feb. 2025
  • Rows of small trees and bushes are wrapped snugly in covers to protect them from the elements.
    Dionne Searcey, New York Times, 23 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • His health will be a big factor in how far Los Angeles can go the rest of the season, playing alongside star guard Luka Doncic.
    Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 15 Feb. 2025
  • What actually helps your nails grow? Dr. Spearman emphasizes that nutrition, hydration, proper care, and minimizing damage are key factors in promoting nail growth.
    Iman Balagam, Vogue, 15 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Constituent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constituent. Accessed 1 Mar. 2025.

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