Here are some synonyms of "includes" and an analysis of their meanings and usage:
1. Comprises
- Meaning: "Comprises" means to consist of or be made up of. It implies that the whole is formed by the combination of the mentioned parts. For example, "The book comprises ten chapters." It gives a sense of a complete entity being formed by its components.
- Usage difference from "includes": "Comprises" is more formal and often used when you want to give a sense of the entirety or the complete makeup of something. "Includes" is more general and can imply that there are other elements as well that might not be mentioned. For example, if you say a package includes a book and a pen, there could be other small items too. But if you say a set comprises a book and a pen, it's more about the specific components that make up that set.
2. Incorporates
- Meaning: "Incorporates" means to take in or include as part of a whole. It often implies a more active process of adding or integrating something. For example, "The new design incorporates modern elements with traditional ones." It suggests that the elements are being blended or integrated into a unified whole.
- Usage difference from "includes": "Incorporates" emphasizes the act of bringing something in and making it a part of a larger entity. "Includes" is more about simply stating that something is among the contents or parts. For example, a report includes some statistics, but a project incorporates different strategies to achieve a goal.
3. Contains
- Meaning: "Contains" means to have or hold within. It gives the idea that something is enclosed or held inside a larger thing. For example, "The box contains toys." It's a straightforward way of saying what's inside a particular container or entity.
- Usage difference from "includes": "Contains" is more about the physical or tangible presence of something within a particular space or object. "Includes" can have a broader sense and can be used for non - physical elements or a more general list. For example, a magazine contains articles (physical content), but a magazine also includes different topics such as fashion, sports, and lifestyle (a more general list of elements).
4. Embraces
- Meaning: "Embraces" means to include or contain in a comprehensive or whole - hearted way. It can also imply a welcoming or accepting of different elements. For example, "The curriculum embraces a wide range of subjects from arts to sciences." It gives a sense of inclusivity and a positive attitude towards the included elements.
- Usage difference from "includes": "Embraces" has a more positive and all - encompassing connotation. "Includes" is more neutral. For example, a club includes members from different backgrounds, but if it embraces diversity, it's actively promoting and celebrating the variety of its members.
5. Covers
- Meaning: "Covers" means to deal with, include, or be about a particular subject or range of things. For example, "The course covers various topics in mathematics." It implies that the subject matter or activity is extensive enough to touch on or deal with the mentioned things.
- Usage difference from "includes": "Covers" is more about the scope or extent of what is being addressed. "Includes" is more about the specific elements that are part of a whole. For example, a book includes a bibliography (a specific part), but a book covers a particular historical period (a broader scope).