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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 Combining a trending genre with the all-time classic elements from Pokémon proved to be a hit and Palworld became a worldwide phenomenon overnight. Oliver Brandt, Newsweek, 19 Feb. 2025 Avoid excessive design elements like images or multiple columns, as these can be difficult for ATS systems to process. Andrew Fennell, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2025 The rules on joint and several liability have introduced an element of uncertainty. Patrick Gleason, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2025 Given the setting, the team sought to ensure minimal impact to the surrounding environment for the temporary space, which will be open through April 11 and channels elements of Najdi architecture and craftsmanship. Naomi Rougeau, Robb Report, 31 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for element
Recent Examples of Synonyms for element
Noun
  • Patterson: Yes, while 'Pause + Renew' targets perimenopause and menopause symptoms, its individual components offer significant benefits for all women.
    Tanya Benedicto Klich, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • As things stand, no one country is capable of producing all of the rare-earth elements that go into a single device, and components such as screen glass and processors are also sourced from all over the world.
    Damon Beres, The Atlantic, 8 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The incident was reported Monday at 7:11 p.m., and the last update regarding this incident was released on Monday at 7:17 p.m. Past Incidents in the last 12 hours: There were no traffic incidents reported in this area for the past 12 hours.
    Kansas City Star Bot, Kansas City Star, 15 Apr. 2025
  • To date, famine has been confirmed in 10 areas in Sudan, including the Abu Shouk displacement camp.
    Violet Ikong, Christian Science Monitor, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Recruiting top-tier talent has been a key factor in Rebellions’ success, says Ki-Jun Kim, CEO of Kakao Ventures, who first met Park in 2019 and decided to invest 2 billion won in Rebellions within an hour of their conversation.
    John Kang, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
  • Since then, political analysts and GOP strategists have pointed to Musk's increasingly polarizing image as a key factor in the loss.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The potential for building more sophisticated internal AI agents capable of handling multi-step tasks with access to large internal knowledge bases increases.
    Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
  • On a per capita basis, West Virginia would see the largest Medicaid cut in the nation, if it’s enacted.
    Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Nearly all of them cite the Stanford University communications scholar Clifford Nass, who by the 1990s and 2000s became the go-to expert on human-computer interaction, particularly in the realm of voice interfaces.
    Sarah A. Bell, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Then, to my astonishment, two slender blue-white streaks appeared, faintly at first, then slightly brighter, like a pair of angel wings peeking through some wondrous celestial realm.
    Blane Bachelor, AFAR Media, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Every ingredient chosen for the supplement is backed by scientific research to help support better sleep.
    Bianca Salonga, Forbes.com, 1 Apr. 2025
  • The team at Clementine Sleepwear explains that through a Micellar Molecular Delivery System, these skin loving ingredients are activated upon contact with skin.
    Bianca Salonga, Forbes.com, 1 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Scores of news organizations use the AP Stylebook for guidance on spelling, grammar and how to refer to certain people and places, to help ensure such references are widely understood in the U.S. and globally.
    Ella Lee, The Hill, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Bad spelling and grammar ensured that most users deleted the message, leaving only the most gullible users in the pipeline.
    Kevin Korte, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The initiative is grounded in six research domains: Comprehension & Agency: AI systems that support, rather than replace, critical thinking and reasoning.
    Tracey Follows, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
  • There are various issues in the business world, but not every issue will fall within your domain of responsibility or expertise.
    Stephanie Dillon, Rolling Stone, 11 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Element.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/element. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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