What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
division
Example
The division of labor in the company is well-organized. [division: noun]
Example
We need to divide the cake into equal portions for everyone. [divide: verb]
Example
There was a division among the members of the committee regarding the proposed changes. [division: noun]
partition
Example
The office was divided by a partition to create two separate workspaces. [partition: noun]
Example
I need to partition my hard drive to separate my personal and work files. [partition: verb]
Example
The partition of India in 1947 led to the creation of Pakistan. [partition: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Division is more commonly used in everyday language, while partition is more technical and specific. Division can also have negative connotations when referring to conflicts or disagreements.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between division and partition?
Partition is more technical and specific, making it more formal than division, which is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.