What is a synonym of “compose”?

Some synonyms and near synonyms of the verb compose (meaning “to make up”) are:

  • Constitute
  • Embody
  • Form
  • Make up

People increasingly use “comprise” as a synonym of “compose.” However, this is normally still seen as a mistake, and we recommend avoiding it in your academic writing. “Comprise” traditionally means “to be made up of,” not “to make up.”

Scribbr’s Paraphrasing Tool can help you find other synonyms for “compose.”