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Compose: meaning, definitions and examples

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compose

 

[kəmˈpəʊz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

writing music

To compose means to create or write music, typically in a specific musical style or genre. Composing involves combining different musical elements such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and structure to produce a complete piece of music.

Synonyms

create, produce, write.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
compose

Use 'compose' primarily in the context of art and music. It is often associated with a formal and structured creation process, especially for music, poetry, and formal letters.

  • He composed a beautiful sonata on the piano.
  • She took time to carefully compose her thoughts before writing the letter.
create

'Create' is a general term that can be used in many contexts where something is being brought into existence. It implies starting something new, whether it's art, ideas, or physical objects.

  • She loves to create new recipes in her kitchen.
  • They plan to create a new app for language learning.
write

This is used specifically when referring to the act of putting words down on paper or a digital medium. It is associated with creating text, such as books, articles, letters, or emails.

  • She loves to write short stories in her free time.
  • Please write a summary of the article.
produce

'Produce' is often used in contexts where there is a tangible output or result from an action. It can imply manufacturing, making something in large quantities, or bringing something into completion.

  • The factory produces thousands of cars every month.
  • He produced a detailed report for the meeting.

Examples of usage

  • He composed a beautiful symphony for the orchestra.
  • She is composing a new song for her upcoming album.
Context #2 | Verb

writing a text or piece of writing

To compose can also mean to create or write a text or piece of writing, such as an essay, poem, or letter. It involves organizing thoughts and ideas into a coherent and structured form of written communication.

Synonyms

craft, draft, write.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
compose

Typically used when talking about creating something that requires careful thought and planning, like music, a poem, or a formal letter.

  • She composed a beautiful piece of music for the wedding
  • He composed a formal letter to the company's CEO
write

A general term applicable to any act of putting words on paper or screen. It's the most neutral and broadest term for this activity.

  • He writes in his journal every night
  • She writes blog posts about her travel experiences
craft

Used when referring to something made with skill and attention to detail, often by hand. This can apply to physical objects, texts, or speeches. It implies a high level of skill.

  • She crafted a heartfelt speech for her best friend's wedding
  • The author crafted a compelling narrative that kept readers hooked
draft

Commonly used when creating the initial version of something that is expected to be revised, such as a report, essay, or plan. This implies that the work is not yet complete.

  • He drafted an email to his professor but hadn't sent it yet
  • She drafted the outline of her thesis over the weekend

Examples of usage

  • The author composed a compelling novel that captivated readers.
  • She composed a heartfelt letter to her friend.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'compose' comes from the Latin 'componere', meaning 'to put together'.
  • This Latin root combines 'com-' (together) and 'ponere' (to place), highlighting the act of joining pieces.
  • The word has evolved over centuries, retaining the essence of assembly and creation since the Middle Ages.

Music

  • Famous composers like Mozart and Beethoven are known for creating symphonies that shaped classical music.
  • In modern music, composing often involves digital tools, allowing artists to layer sounds easily.
  • Composing a piece of music can require knowledge of rhythm, melody, and harmony to create a pleasing arrangement.

Literature

  • Writers compose stories, poems, and essays, arranging words to express ideas and emotions.
  • The art of composition in literature involves understanding structure, such as knowing when to use paragraphs and chapters.
  • Famous authors, like Shakespeare, composed intricate plays that continue to influence storytelling today.

Art

  • In visual arts, composition refers to how elements are arranged within a piece, affecting balance and focus.
  • Artists like Picasso explored unique compositions that challenge traditional perspectives, reshaping modern art.
  • Good composition in art can lead the viewer's eye, creating a path through the work.

Psychology

  • The act of composing thoughts can benefit mental clarity, helping people organize their ideas and emotions.
  • Therapeutic writing, often considered a form of composition, aids in processing feelings and experiences.
  • Research suggests that composing music or art can enhance mood and foster creativity in individuals.

Translations

Translations of the word "compose" in other languages:

🇵🇹 compor

🇮🇳 रचना करना

🇩🇪 komponieren

🇮🇩 mengarang

🇺🇦 складати

🇵🇱 komponować

🇯🇵 作曲する (sakkyoku suru)

🇫🇷 composer

🇪🇸 componer

🇹🇷 beste yapmak

🇰🇷 작곡하다 (jakgokhada)

🇸🇦 يؤلف

🇨🇿 skládat

🇸🇰 skladať

🇨🇳 作曲 (zuòqǔ)

🇸🇮 skladati

🇮🇸 semja

🇰🇿 құрастыру

🇬🇪 შექმნა

🇦🇿 bəstələmək

🇲🇽 componer

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,415 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.