What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subdivide
Example
The landowner decided to subdivide his property into smaller lots. [subdivide: verb]
Example
The report was subdivided into several sections for easier reading. [subdivided: past participle]
separate
Example
The teacher asked the students to separate into groups for the project. [separate: verb]
Example
The fence separated the two properties. [separated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Separate is more commonly used than subdivide in everyday language. Separate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while subdivide is less common and is typically used in technical or specialized contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between subdivide and separate?
Both subdivide and separate are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.