English Profile

composition · noun

/ˌkɑm.pəˈzɪʃ.ən/Full view

composition (WRITING)

B1 C a short piece of writing about a particular subject, done by a student

Dictionary example:

a 500-word composition

Learner example:

I have [to] do a composition in English to cover the work I missed. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Portuguese)

composition (MUSIC)

B2 C a piece of music that someone has written

Dictionary example:

This concerto is one of her later compositions.

Learner example:

He sang Schubert's "Die Winterreise" although it's already Spring - this composition [can be heard in] every season. (First Certificate in English; B2; German)

composition (PARTS)

C2 U the parts, substances, etc. that something consists of

Dictionary example:

the composition of the atmosphere

Learner example:

The eating procedure takes approx. 3 hrs, as each course is introduced by a detailed description of its preparation and composition. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Swedish)

composition (ARRANGEMENT)

C2 U the way that people or things are arranged in a painting or photograph

Dictionary example:

The composition of the painting was perfect.

Learner example:

The study of acting, directing, and generally speaking of the scene has always demanded a certain degree of visual composition, a sense of image and of that which is immediately seen (or not seen). (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Romanian)

composition (WRITING MUSIC)

C2 U the process or skill of writing music

Dictionary example:

He taught composition at Yale.

Learner example:

He finished music composition at the University in Cracow, [and] he soon became the professor of composition at the same school of music. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Polish)