What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
divide
Example
Please divide the cake into equal portions. [divide: verb]
Example
The issue has divided the community into two opposing sides. [divided: past participle]
Example
The profits will be divided among the shareholders. [divided: past participle]
partition
Example
The room was partitioned into two separate areas. [partitioned: past tense]
Example
The partition between the two offices was soundproof. [partition: noun]
Example
The store used partitions to create different sections for different products. [partitions: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Divide is more commonly used than partition in everyday language, as it is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts. Partition is more technical and formal, and is often used in specific fields such as architecture or computer science.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between divide and partition?
Partition is generally considered more formal than divide, as it is often used in technical or specialized contexts. However, both words can be used in formal or informal settings depending on the context.
