Synonyms of element

element

noun

ˈe-lə-mənt 

1

as in component

one of the parts that make up a whole

a free press is an essential element of a democracy

Synonyms & Similar Words

• component
• factor
• ingredient
• member
• constituent
• basis
• characteristic
• aspect
• building block
• feature
• item
• trait
• facet
• section
• portion
• particular
• piece
• segment
• detail
• fragment
• sector
• part and parcel
• particle
• point
• division
• partition
• subcomponent

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• whole
• compound
• mass
• total
• composite
• sum
• aggregate
• combination
• mixture
• entirety
• totality
• summation
• mix
• blend
• amalgam
• admixture
• amalgamation
• intermixture

2

as in principles

elements plural general or basic truths on which other truths or theories can be based

the elements of mathematics can be traced back to Euclid

Synonyms & Similar Words

• principles
• basis
• grammar
• foundation
• alphabet
• fundamentals
• philosophy
• basics
• essentials
• rudiments
• doctrine
• law
• ABC(s)
• keystone
• cornerstone
• bedrock
• underpinning
• tenet
• groundwork
• belief
• axiom
• precept
• rule
• dogma
• theorem
• canon
• nitty-gritty
• standard
• faith

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• details
• trivia

3

as in area

a region of activity, knowledge, or influence

she felt a bit out of her element in the mathematics section of the exam

Synonyms & Similar Words

• area
• realm
• domain
• field
• department
• sphere
• walk
• terrain
• kingdom
• circle
• specialty
• front
• territory
• province
• discipline
• arena
• game
• business
• line
• precinct
• subject
• study
• bailiwick
• firmament
• barony
• fief
• scope
• demesne
• confine
• fiefdom
• frontier
• profession
• pursuit
• extent
• width
• occupation
• amplitude
• vocation
• breadth
• turf
• compass
• racket
• subfield
• ambit
• sweep
• reach
• dimension(s)
• subspecialty
• ken

Synonym Chooser

How is the word element distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of element are component, constituent, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

How are the words component and constituent related as synonyms of element?

Both 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

Where would constituent be a reasonable alternative to element?

The synonyms constituent and element are sometimes interchangeable, but constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

When is it sensible to use ingredient instead of element?

The words ingredient and element can be used in similar contexts, but ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

Examples of element in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Creativity and hope for a better tomorrow were the elements that ran through all the sections. —Georg Szalai, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Aug. 2024

Its simplicity highlights the signature Birkenstock design elements, like the contoured cork-latex footbed that molds to your foot and the iconic buckle strap. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 17 Aug. 2024

By studying remnants of the space rock collected in Europe, the researchers found signs of ruthenium – a rare element contained within asteroids from well beyond the orbit of Jupiter. —Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 16 Aug. 2024

Republican candidates increasingly picked up on the anti-elitist education theme as the party began appealing more to economically downscale voters — an important element in Trump’s 2016 winning coalition. —David Mark, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 17 Aug. 2024