What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
splinter
Example
Be careful not to get a splinter from that old fence. [splinter: noun]
Example
I got a splinter in my finger while working with the wooden boards. [splinter: noun]
Example
The door frame was splintered into many pieces after the accident. [splintered: verb]
fragment
Example
The vase shattered into fragments when it fell off the table. [fragment: noun]
Example
The ancient manuscript was found in fragments, scattered across different locations. [fragments: noun]
Example
The composer used a fragment of a popular melody in his new symphony. [fragment: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fragment is more commonly used than splinter in everyday language, as it is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between splinter and fragment?
Both splinter and fragment are relatively formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional writing.
