Tips To Keep You From Sounding Stupid

Here is today's tip to keep you from sounding like a moron: Don't use the word "comprise." Just don't. It is rare that I find it used correctly even in print, even in books by somewhat respected authors. If you have an urge to use the word, instead use "compose." Ninety-nine out of a hundred times, "compose" is the word you wanted anyway. But, here's a little test you can take. Of the following three sentences, only one uses the word "comprise" correctly. Which one do you think it is?

1. Nine players comprise a baseball team.
2. A baseball team is comprised of nine players.
3. A baseball team comprises nine players.

Okay, first of all, yes, I know there are more players on a team. But as far as fielding a team, you need only nine. That being said, which option did you choose?

The only correct one is the third sentence: "A baseball team comprises nine players." You can never say "comprised of." That is always wrong. Say "composed of" to avoid sounding ignorant.