“Is comprised of”

Common English Blunders, Verbs

I often see or hear this.

Problem:
“Is comprised of” is meaningless.

Explanation:
Something is not comprised of X, Y, and Z. Instead, something comprises X, Y, and Z. If you know how to use “encompass” correctly, then you can test whether you are using “comprise” correctly.

Incorrect: The USA is encompassed of fifty states.
Correct: The USA encompasses fifty states.

Incorrect: The USA is comprised of fifty states.
Correct: The USA comprises fifty states.

Solution:
“Comprises”