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Word

composition

noun C1
UK /ˌkɒmpəˈzɪʃən/
US /ˌkɑm.pəˈzɪʃ.ən/

Meanings

noun

the way the parts of something are arranged or combined; overall structure

composition: the way the parts of something are arranged or combined; overall structure
noun

a piece of writing, music, or art that someone creates, often as an assignment or for performance

composition: a piece of writing, music, or art that someone creates, often as an assignment or for performance
noun

the substances or elements that something is made of; makeup

composition: the substances or elements that something is made of; makeup

Definition

Composition is the way something is put together or a piece of creative work that has been produced.

Composition refers to the structure and arrangement of parts in a whole, such as the layout of a photograph or the elements in a mixture. It can also mean a written, musical, or artistic work, especially one created as an exercise or for performance. In both uses, the focus is on how elements are organized to create a coherent result.

Examples

  • The composition of the photo draws your eye toward the lone figure on the horizon.
  • My professor said the composition needed a clearer thesis and stronger transitions.
  • Her latest composition blends string instruments with subtle electronic sounds.
  • They analyzed the composition of the alloy to understand why it corroded so quickly.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse composition (structure or a created work) with compromise (an agreement reached by mutual concessions).