What is the difference between “comprise” and “compose”?

Answer: “Comprise” is used when listing the parts that make up a whole, while “compose” is used when specifying the elements that constitute something.

1. “Comprise”:
   • Meaning: “Comprise” means to include or contain; it is used to indicate the parts that make up a whole.
   • Usage: When using “comprise,” the whole is mentioned first, followed by its constituent parts. It is often followed by “of.”
   • Example: “The team comprises experts from various fields.” Here, the team is the whole, and the experts are the parts.
2. “Compose”:
   • Meaning: “Compose” means to make up or form by combining various elements; it is used when specifying the elements that constitute something.
   • Usage: When using “compose,” the individual parts or elements are mentioned first, followed by what they collectively make up. It is often followed by “of” or “with.”
   • Example: “The novel is composed of three main characters.” Here, the characters are the individual parts, and the novel is what they collectively make up.

Key Difference:

• The crucial distinction is the order of mention. “Comprise” starts with the whole and mentions its parts, while “compose” starts with the parts and mentions what they collectively make up.