compose vs comprise: what's the difference?

The parts compose the whole; the whole comprises the parts.

compose

/kəmˈpəʊz/

Meaning: to make up or form something

Example: “Eleven players compose a team.”

Full definition of compose →

comprise

/kəmˈpraɪz/

Meaning: to consist of or be made up of

Example: “The team comprises eleven players.”

Full definition of comprise →

How to remember

Avoid "comprised of": say "composed of" or "comprises".

More commonly confused words