Understanding the Correct Use of 'Comprise'

The question asks us to identify the grammatically correct sentence among the given options, focusing on the usage of the verb 'comprise'. Let's break down the rules for using 'comprise' correctly in a sentence.

Rules for Using 'Comprise'

• Meaning: The verb 'comprise' means to consist of, be made up of, or include.
• Transitive Verb: 'Comprise' is typically used as a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object without needing a preposition like 'of'. For example, "The book comprises ten chapters."
• Incorrect Usage: It is considered incorrect and redundant to use 'comprise' with the preposition 'of' when it means 'to consist of'. Saying "comprises of" is like saying "consists of of".
• Alternative: The verb phrase 'consists of' is a grammatically correct alternative. For example, "The book consists of ten chapters."
• Passive Voice: The passive form 'is comprised of' (meaning 'is made up of' or 'is composed of') is widely accepted in modern English, although some traditionalists prefer 'comprises' or 'consists of'.

Analysis of Options

Let's examine each sentence based on these rules:

• The report comprises five sections.

  Analysis: This sentence correctly uses 'comprises' as a transitive verb followed directly by its object ("five sections"). This adheres to the standard rule for 'comprise'. This is the most grammatically correct option.

• The report is comprised of five sections.

  Analysis: This sentence uses the passive voice "is comprised of". While common and accepted in many contexts, the active form in option 1 is often preferred for conciseness and adherence to traditional grammar rules.

• The report comprises of five sections.

  Analysis: This sentence incorrectly uses "comprises of". The preposition "of" is redundant here because "comprise" already implies "consist of".

• The report had comprised five sections.

  Analysis: This sentence uses the past perfect tense ("had comprised"). While grammatically possible in specific contexts describing a past state before another past event, the simple present tense ("comprises") is the standard and most direct way to state the composition of the report as a general fact.

Conclusion

Based on standard English grammar rules, the most accurate and preferred sentence is the one that uses 'comprises' directly as a transitive verb without 'of'. Therefore, the first option is the correct choice.