Words / B2

k-uh-m-POHZ/kəmˈpəʊz/

To compose is to write music or a text, or to make up the parts of something: compose a piece for piano, be composed of three sections. Write is everyday for text and music; make up is everyday for the parts sense. Compose yourself means calm down. A composer writes music. In speech, write or made up of is enough. Do not confuse it with comprise (the whole comprises the parts) or with compost (garden waste).

Meaning

To write music or a text, or to make up the parts of something.

Examples

• “She composed a short piece for the piano.”
• “She composed a short fanfare for the opening of the hall.”
• “The panel is composed of two teachers and one governor.”

Good to know

Write music/text, or be made up of. Everyday: write / made up of. composed of. Calm down: compose yourself. Contrast: comprise; compost.

Near in meaning

write

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