"constitute" vs "make up"

Question

"constitute" vs "make up"

Both "make up" and "constitute" are correct phrases, but they are used in different contexts. "Make up" is more commonly used in informal language to mean form or compose, while "constitute" is more formal and is often used in academic or professional contexts.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

The phrase "constitute" is used to indicate the parts or elements that form something. It is commonly used in formal or technical writing, academic papers, or professional settings.

Examples:

The different elements constitute the whole theory.
These factors constitute a significant risk to the project.
The members constitute the board of directors.
The data constitutes the basis for the analysis.
The team constitutes a diverse group of individuals.

Alternatives:

make up
form
compose
comprise
consist of

The phrase "make up" is used to describe the act of forming or composing something. It is often used in everyday conversations and informal writing.

Examples:

The team is made up of players from different countries.
The ingredients make up the recipe for the cake.
Her kindness makes up for her lack of experience.
The different colors make up a beautiful painting.
The committee is made up of volunteers.

Alternatives:

compose
form
constitute
comprise
consist of

Answer 1

constitute

This phrase is correct and more formal, often used in academic or professional contexts.

Answer 2

make up

This phrase is correct and commonly used in informal language to mean form or compose.

"constitute" vs "make up"

constitute

make up

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