These expressions often connect a whole with its parts. The main questions are which comes first and whether you are naming everything.
- Comprise: The whole comes first, followed by its parts: The apartment comprises three rooms. This is a relatively formal choice. Do not add of in this active pattern.
- Consist of: The whole also comes first. Use it to say what something is made of or to give its complete set of parts: The breakfast consists of eggs, toast, and coffee.
- Include: Use this when naming things that belong to a larger group, without necessarily listing everything: The price includes breakfast. Other things may be covered too, although the word does not guarantee that there are more.
- Compose: The parts come first in the active form: Six musicians compose the ensemble. The passive form is common: The ensemble is composed of six musicians.
- Constitute: This formal word can mean that parts form a whole: These twelve districts constitute the region. It can also mean “count as”: Sharing that password could constitute a security risk.
- Make up: This everyday expression puts the parts first: Volunteers make up most of the staff. It works for both a whole and a stated share.
You will also encounter is comprised of. It is widely used, but some editors object to it. For less disputed wording, choose comprises, consists of, or is composed of, adjusting the sentence structure as needed.