What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fraction
Example
Half is a fraction that represents one out of two equal parts. [fraction: noun]
Example
The fraction of students who passed the exam was three-quarters. [fraction: noun]
Example
He only had a fraction of the money he needed to buy the car. [fraction: noun]
division
Example
I learned how to do long division in math class. [division: noun]
Example
The teacher divided the class into groups for a group project. [divided: verb]
Example
The company faced division among its employees over the new policy. [division: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Division is more commonly used than fraction in everyday language, as it has broader usage in various fields and contexts. However, fraction is more commonly used in mathematics and science.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fraction and division?
Fraction and division are both formal terms used in academic and technical contexts, but division is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.