Include vs. Comprise: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 6, 2023
"Include" means to contain as part of a whole; "comprise" means to consist of or be made up of the whole.
Key Differences
"Include" suggests that the item is part of a larger whole, but there may be other components not mentioned. "Comprise," however, implies that all components of the whole are listed and nothing is excluded.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
When using "include," the focus is on the part within the whole, hinting at selected examples. "Comprise" indicates the whole is constituted by the parts, often used to express the complete composition.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
"Include" is a verb that invites additional items beyond those listed. On the contrary, "comprise" is used when the speaker is accounting for all the elements explicitly.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Inclusion can be partial, whereas to comprise is to give a full account. If something is included, there can be more to add; if it comprises, the list is comprehensive.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Using "include" often introduces examples, while "comprise" is a statement of completeness. "The meal includes dessert" differs from "The meal comprises three courses."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Implication
Part of the whole, possibly among others.
The whole is made up of the parts listed.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Usage in a Sentence
Often followed by examples.
Lists all elements constituting the whole.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Connotation
Inclusive, but not necessarily exhaustive.
Exhaustive and complete.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Position in Sentence
Typically takes a direct object.
May take a direct object or be used with "of."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Grammatical Structure
"Include" followed by listed items.
"Comprised of" or "comprises" the items.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
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Include and Comprise Definitions
Include
To consider as part of a group.
The study includes children aged 5 to 10.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Comprise
To constitute the whole of something.
The trilogy comprises three novels set in different eras.
Sara Rehman
Nov 06, 2023
Include
To make someone or something a part of something.
They decided to include their new neighbors in the party.
Janet White
Nov 06, 2023
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Include
To add as a part of something else.
The anthology includes her latest short story.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Comprise
To consist of; to be made up of.
The committee is comprised of experts from various fields.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Include
To mention as part of a list.
The agenda includes a discussion on sustainability.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Comprise
To include all; to encompass.
The United States comprises fifty states.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Comprise
To be composed of or contain
The staff comprises eight physicians, two dozen nurses, and various administrative people.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 24, 2022
Include
To consider as part of or allow into a group or class
Thanked the host for including us.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 24, 2022
Comprise
Usage Problem To compose; make up; constitute
The countries and territories that comprised the British Empire.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 24, 2022
FAQs
Is it correct to say "is comprised of"?
Yes, though some grammarians prefer "comprises" alone.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 06, 2023
Can "include" and "comprise" be used interchangeably?
No, "include" suggests parts of a whole, while "comprise" means the whole is made up of the parts.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Can "include" imply that there are more items not listed?
Yes, "include" often suggests there are additional items.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Should "comprise" be used in passive voice?
It's commonly used in passive voice as "is comprised of," though it's stylistically better in active voice.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Is "comprise" more formal than "include"?
"Comprise" can be seen as more formal and is often used in technical or academic contexts.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Can "include" refer to abstract concepts?
Yes, abstract concepts can be included.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Does "include" need a complete list?
No, "include" can present a partial list.
Sara Rehman
Nov 06, 2023
Can both "include" and "comprise" be used in legal documents?
Yes, both can be used, but "comprise" is more common for its precision.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Can "include" be used when all items are listed?
Yes, but it doesn't imply the list is exhaustive.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Can "comprise" introduce a list of examples?
No, "comprise" implies a complete list, not examples.
Janet White
Nov 06, 2023
Can "include" suggest selectivity?
Yes, it often suggests a choice of parts to mention.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Is it correct to use "comprised of"?
It's commonly used but considered redundant by some.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Can "comprise" mean the same as "compose"?
Yes, but "comprise" often suggests a more formal composition.
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Is "comprise" only used for physical components?
No, it can also refer to abstract components.
Sara Rehman
Nov 06, 2023
Can "include" function as a command?
Yes, for instance, "Please include your address."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 06, 2023
Do "include" and "comprise" have the same tense forms?
Yes, both verbs have similar tense forms like "included" and "comprised."
Janet White
Nov 06, 2023
Does "comprise" allow for omitted elements?
No, it implies all elements are accounted for.
Janet White
Nov 06, 2023
Can "include" be used to imply importance?
It can, especially when highlighting specific inclusions.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 06, 2023
Can "include" be used to welcome someone?
Yes, as in "You're included in our group."
Harlon Moss
Nov 06, 2023
Is "comprise" ever used informally?
It's less common but can be used informally.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 06, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
