What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fragmentation
Example
The fragmentation of the company's departments made communication difficult. [fragmentation: noun]
Example
The rock was shattered into fragments by the explosion. [fragmented: past participle]
disintegration
Example
The disintegration of the empire led to a period of political instability. [disintegration: noun]
Example
The old building was in a state of disintegration, with walls crumbling and floors collapsing. [disintegrating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fragmentation is more commonly used than disintegration in technical or scientific contexts, while disintegration is more commonly used in everyday language to describe physical objects or abstract concepts that are falling apart or breaking down.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fragmentation and disintegration?
Fragmentation is often used in technical or scientific contexts, making it more formal than disintegration, which is more commonly used in everyday language.
