component 1 of 2

component

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adjective

Synonym Chooser

How is the word component distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of component are constituent, element, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," 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

In what contexts can constituent take the place of component?

While in some cases nearly identical to component, constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

When is element a more appropriate choice than component?

While the synonyms element and component are close in meaning, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

When is it sensible to use ingredient instead of component?

Although the words ingredient and component have much in common, ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

Examples of component in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
In May, engineers discovered that components of the spacecraft may not be able to withstand Jupiter’s harsh radiation environment. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 14 Oct. 2024 The only alternative was to delay the launch for several years to replace the suspect components. William Harwood, CBS News, 14 Oct. 2024
Adjective
Once Cerar stepped down as prime minister earlier this year and the squabbling of coalition partners disappeared from the headlines, his image as a decent and component prime minister returned. Tim Haughton, Washington Post, 5 June 2018 See all Example Sentences for component 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'component.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near component

Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 24 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on component

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