What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
segregate
Example
The school was accused of segregating students based on their race. [segregating: present participle]
Example
The prisoners were segregated from the rest of the population. [segregated: past tense]
divide
Example
The cake was divided into equal slices for everyone. [divided: past tense]
Example
The river divides the city into two distinct neighborhoods. [divides: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Divide is more commonly used than segregate in everyday language. Divide is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while segregate is less common and typically used in social and political contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between segregate and divide?
While segregate is typically associated with a formal and serious tone, divide is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.