Constitute: meaning, definitions and examples

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constitute

 

[ˈkɒnstɪtjuːt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

make up

To form or compose something, such as a whole or a group. To be a part of a whole.

Synonyms

compose, form, represent.

Examples of usage

  • Each ingredient constitutes a different flavor in the dish.
  • His actions constitute a violation of the company's policy.
  • The members of the committee constitute a diverse group.
Context #2 | Verb

establish

To establish something, such as a law or a rule. To be the basis or foundation of something.

Synonyms

create, establish, found.

Examples of usage

  • These rules constitute the framework for our project.
  • The document constitutes a legally binding agreement.
  • His research constitutes a significant contribution to the field.
Context #3 | Verb

appoint

To appoint or assign someone to a particular role or position.

Synonyms

appoint, designate, nominate.

Examples of usage

  • He was constituted as the new director of the department.
  • The committee constituted a special task force to address the issue.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin 'constituere', meaning 'to set up' or 'to establish'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, reflecting ideas of organization and structure.

Law and Governance

  • In legal contexts, to 'constitute' can refer to the establishment of laws or regulations.
  • Constitutions are documents that constitute the foundational principles of a state, outlining how government operates.

Science

  • In biology, different cells and organs constitute the overall structure and function of an organism.
  • The chemical composition of substances is often discussed in terms of what elements constitute them.

Philosophy

  • The concept of what constitutes identity often arises in philosophical discussions about personal identity and existence.
  • Historical figures like Aristotle examined what qualities constitute different forms of life.

Education

  • In classroom settings, groups can illustrate what constitutes effective teamwork, highlighting roles and responsibilities.
  • Curricula often constitute a blend of subjects and skills needed for holistic education.

Translations

Translations of the word "constitute" in other languages:

🇵🇹 constituir

🇮🇳 गठित करना

🇩🇪 bilden

🇮🇩 membentuk

🇺🇦 складати

🇵🇱 stanowić

🇯🇵 構成する (こうせいする)

🇫🇷 constituer

🇪🇸 constituir

🇹🇷 oluşturmak

🇰🇷 구성하다

🇸🇦 شكل

🇨🇿 tvořit

🇸🇰 tvoriť

🇨🇳 构成 (gòuchéng)

🇸🇮 sestavljati

🇮🇸 mynda

🇰🇿 құрау

🇬🇪 შეადგენენ

🇦🇿 təşkil etmək

🇲🇽 constituir

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,120, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.