constitutes
word · lemma: constitute
Definition
Means to be or form something, or to make up the parts that create a whole; often used in formal or legal contexts.
Usage & Nuances
Very formal and common in legal, academic, and scientific language. Used with rules, definitions, groups, or essentials ('This constitutes a crime'). Rarely used in casual speech. Often confused with 'comprise' or 'make up', but 'constitutes' focuses on what forms or qualifies as something.
Example Sentences
Ten students constitute the entire class.
basic
Stealing constitutes a crime in most countries.
basic
A smile doesn't always constitute happiness.
basic
A broken window doesn’t necessarily constitute an emergency.
natural
What constitutes a healthy relationship is different for everyone.
natural
Sending spam emails constitutes a violation of company policy.
natural