What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
constituent
Example
Water is a constituent of all living organisms. [constituent: noun]
Example
The board members are constituents of the company. [constituents: plural noun]
Example
As a constituent of this district, I expect my representative to listen to my concerns. [constituent: adjective]
ingredient
Example
Flour is an essential ingredient in making bread. [ingredient: noun]
Example
Hard work is an important ingredient for success. [ingredient: noun]
Example
Vitamin C is a key ingredient in this skincare product. [ingredient: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ingredient is more commonly used than constituent in everyday language, especially in the context of cooking or products.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between constituent and ingredient?
Constituent is more formal than ingredient, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.