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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

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of element There’s even a subtle skin-care element that keeps my lips feeling soft and comfortable, even after hours of wear. Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 24 Apr. 2025 Designed to withstand the elements, this shoe doesn’t ever need to touch a hiking trail in order to be useful. Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Apr. 2025 But one important element has remained the same throughout all of the Palladinos' hit shows (which also includes The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Bunheads): the sharp, quickly delivered dialogue. Breanne L. Heldman, People.com, 23 Apr. 2025 In the current era, in which every bedrock element of the media business is in flux, however, even mainstays are being torn up at the roots. Brian Steinberg, Variety, 23 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for element
Recent Examples of Synonyms for element
Noun
  • One to look at in particular is the memory component of these graphics cards.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 19 Apr. 2025
  • The housing for people who meet certain income limits is a component added with input from the community, the presentation says.
    Elliott Wenzler, Denver Post, 19 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Don’t leave without stopping into Apalachicola Bee Company to sample and purchase the area’s world-famous Florida tupelo honey See The Victorian Homes In The Historic District Apalachicola is one of the Sunshine State’s most historic cities, having been officially named in 1831.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 27 Apr. 2025
  • The Jones Road Wildfire was first spotted at approximately 9:45 a.m. on April 22 in the Greenwood Wildlife Management area in Waretown, New Jersey, officials said.
    Megan Forrester, ABC News, 27 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • And this is where the Trump factor could come into play.
    Claudia Grisales, NPR, 28 Apr. 2025
  • But there may be other factors in play, too, including a worldwide decline in confidence in the United States and its government.
    John Cassidy, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Pick up a regular post of substance where people can come to learn from you, trust you and be influenced by you on a consistent basis.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025
  • Listen to this article San Diego Union-Tribune High School Softball Poll (First-place votes in parentheses; points awarded on a 10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 basis) Team; Record; Points;Last 1.
    John Maffei, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Yet in our increasingly digital world, the tangible nature of oracle and tarot decks offers a rare form of material connection—something to hold, shuffle, and physically engage with outside the digital realm.
    Michaela Trimble, Vogue, 21 Apr. 2025
  • Aimee used the medium of transmitting sound to establish a new realm of spirituality.
    Claire Hoffman, Rolling Stone, 20 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Ketchup is also a key ingredient for topping our meatloaf and flavoring our baked beans.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 21 Apr. 2025
  • The key ingredients to effective just-in-time inclusion efforts are the right people, at the right time, with the right message, and from the right messenger.
    Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Keep it concise ‒ ideally no more than one page ‒ and proofread carefully for grammar and spelling.
    Johnny C. Taylor Jr., USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025
  • Candidate responses are verbatim and have not been edited for spelling, grammar or clarity.
    Kate Marijolovic, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • With this in mind, the startup costs listed below automatically assume that your website and domain are included.
    Rachel Wells, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025
  • The character is due to enter the public domain in 2034.
    Gene Maddaus, Variety, 25 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Element.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/element. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on element

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