Formal and Informal Expressions of half

In different contexts, you can replace 'half' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'part, portion' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'bit, piece' is a commonplace synonym.

half: Explore its Definition & Usage

half Definition

1one of two equal or nearly equal parts into which something can be divided
2a half-hour; thirty minutes

Using half: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "half" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
I ate half of the pizza.
Example
She only drank half of her coffee.
Example
He works half-time at the store.
Example
The game is tied at two and a half.

half Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for half

Antonyms for half

whole
entirety

Idioms Using half

be half the battle
to have completed the most difficult part of a task
Example
Getting started on the project is half the battle.
go off half-cocked
to act without thinking or planning
Example
He went off half-cocked and made a mess of things.
not do things by halves
to do something thoroughly or completely
Example
She doesn't do things by halves and always gives 100% effort.

Phrases with half

half and half
a mixture of two equal parts of milk and cream
Example
I like to put half and half in my coffee.
half-hearted
without enthusiasm or energy
Example
She made a half-hearted attempt to clean her room.
half-baked
poorly thought out or executed
Example
His plan was half-baked and doomed to fail.

Origins of half

from Old English 'healf'

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Summary: half in Brief

The term 'half' [hæf] refers to one of two equal or nearly equal parts into which something can be divided. It can also denote a half-hour or thirty minutes. 'Half' is used in phrases like 'half and half' for a mixture of milk and cream, and 'half-hearted' for a lack of enthusiasm. Idioms include 'be half the battle,' meaning the most difficult part of a task is done, and 'go off half-cocked,' meaning to act without thinking.