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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 Samples from multiple batches of each of the 23 different products were analyzed to assess total protein, arsenic, cadmium, lead and other elements. New Atlas, 22 Oct. 2025 Through seven games, Taylor leads the league in rushing with 697 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns, along with 185 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown on 23 catches — an element of his game that has long been lacking. Rowan Fisher-Shotton, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025 Planks, which have elements of Pilates, yoga, and stretching, require little space. Mallory Creveling, Health, 22 Oct. 2025 The Bespoke design team spent five months working with a historian to research and uncover key elements from the Phantom’s past. Howard Walker, Robb Report, 22 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for element
Recent Examples of Synonyms for element
Noun
  • Beyond the look and feel (LOTS of orange decor and side-burns), directors Colin and Cameron Cairnes nailed other era-specific components like the exaggerated way talk show guests present themselves (the psychic!
    Gwen Ihnat, Entertainment Weekly, 18 Oct. 2025
  • And because the piano’s many components are domestically sourced, Steiner said tariffs haven’t impacted them significantly.
    Joel Williams, CNN Money, 18 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • No injuries were reported from the incident, which took place in an area where the highway patrol had stopped traffic during the live fire exercise at Camp Pendleton, the agency said in a statement Sunday.
    Susannah Cullinane, CNN Money, 20 Oct. 2025
  • The release noted terrain in the area can be rugged and steep and cautioned visitors to stay a safe distance from the edge.
    Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Online, 20 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • If length is typically a determining factor when buying pants, the trousers are available in three inseam options to ensure shoppers of all heights can find the right fit.
    Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Aggregate score is not a factor.
    Avi Creditor, New York Times, 23 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Corps officials will evaluate each request on a case by case basis.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Each of the American automakers is expected to report double-digit declines in adjusted earnings per share but remain profitable on an adjusted basis, according to analyst estimates compiled by LSEG.
    Michael Wayland, CNBC, 20 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Stargazers interested in getting a closer look at the wonders of the night sky should check out our roundups of the best telescopes and binoculars available in 2025, while those new to the hobby should read our roundup of the best smartphone astronomy apps for navigating the post sunset realm.
    Anthony Wood, Space.com, 22 Oct. 2025
  • Since March 30, the planet of dreams and subconscious realms has been testing the waters in Aries, hinting at a new collective era of self-reinvention and spiritual autonomy.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 22 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • For example, your soup might include a couple of vegetables but lack ingredients that add bulk, flavor, and protein.
    Brian Mastroianni, Health, 22 Oct. 2025
  • This is further demonstrated by the concentration of Mānuka honey Aunu is using in conjunction with complementary ingredients.
    Emily Burns, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Some questions and answers have been edited for grammar, spelling, clarity and brevity.
    Dorothy Elder, Oc Register, 22 Oct. 2025
  • The rules of grammar were useless now, and never truly rules.
    Sam Lipsyte, New Yorker, 19 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • For dramatic effect, each shrub should be given a separate domain in the garden.
    Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 18 Oct. 2025
  • The popularity of indoor climbing has helped to make the sport more accessible to a broader swath of the American population, injecting new diversity into an activity that had long been the domain of young white men.
    Kelli María Korducki, HubSpot, 17 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Element.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/element. Accessed 25 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on element

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