The word “comprise” often trips up even seasoned English speakers. You might have heard phrases like “it comprises of” or even “it comprises that,” but are these grammatically sound? This guide delves into the correct usage of “comprise” and its nuances, equipping you with the knowledge to use it confidently in your IELTS exam.
Here are some examples of how “comprise” might appear in different sections of the IELTS:
- Listening: You might hear a speaker say, “The report comprises three main sections.”
- Reading: A passage could state, “The company’s portfolio comprises a diverse range of products.”
- Writing Task 1: You might describe a chart, stating, “The pie chart illustrates the main components of the diet, with carbohydrates comprising the largest proportion.”
- Writing Task 2: You could argue, “A successful team comprises individuals with complementary skills.”
Let’s dissect these examples to understand the sentence structure: in each case, “comprise” directly links the subject (report, portfolio, components, team) to its constituent parts, without needing prepositions like “of” or “that.”
Understanding “Comprise”
“Comprise” means “to consist of” or “to be made up of.” It indicates a whole containing specific parts. The key is to remember that “comprise” already implies inclusion, making prepositions like “of” and “that” redundant and grammatically incorrect.
The Correct Formula
Subject + comprise + object (parts/constituents)
Example:
- The university comprises six faculties.
Here, “university” is the subject, “comprise” is the verb, and “six faculties” is the object, listing the parts that make up the university.
Correct Comprise Usage
Applying “Comprise” in IELTS
Writing Task 1:
- Incorrect: The diagram comprises of four main stages.
- Correct: The diagram comprises four main stages.
Analysis: Using “of” after “comprise” is superfluous. The sentence is more concise and impactful without it.
Writing Task 2:
- Incorrect: A balanced diet comprises that you eat a variety of foods.
- Correct: A balanced diet comprises eating a variety of foods.
Analysis: “That” is grammatically incorrect after “comprise.” The sentence flows better when structured with a gerund (“eating”) as the object.
Aiming Higher: Using Synonyms and Variations
While “comprise” is a useful verb, varying your language demonstrates a wider vocabulary. Consider synonyms like:
- Consist of: The committee consists of five members.
- Include: The price includes accommodation and meals.
- Be composed of: The Earth’s atmosphere is composed of various gases.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Using “of” after “comprise”: This is the most common error. Remember, “comprise” already implies “consist of.”
- Using “that” after “comprise”: “That” is not grammatically correct in this context.
- Using the passive voice unnecessarily: While grammatically correct, the active voice is often more concise and impactful.
Incorrect: Six faculties are comprised by the university.
Correct: The university comprises six faculties.
Conclusion
Mastering the correct usage of “comprise” might seem like a small detail, but it can significantly impact the clarity and sophistication of your writing. By remembering the simple formula and avoiding common errors, you can confidently use “comprise” in your IELTS exam and achieve a higher band score. Keep practicing with different examples, and soon it will become second nature.