When to Use Comprise vs Consists

Some writers misuse the word comprise in their writing by following the word with of. They are likely confusing comprise with consists.

These words have similar definitions:

Comprise: to include or be made up of.

Consists: to be composed or made up of.

But, grammatically, only one of these words is followed by of. That word is consists.

Example 1

The complex comprises three proteins.

The complex consists of three proteins.

Example 2

The solution comprises four chemicals.

The solution consists of four chemicals.

If you notice that you use comprised of in your writing, search your document for comprised and either replace it with consists or delete the of that follows.

Language constantly evolves, so this guideline may change. Until then, show readers your mastery of the difference between comprise and consists.