fragment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
fragment Word Meanings
- a small piece broken off something larger
- an incomplete part of a whole
- a section of text or speech
fragment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
fragment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfræɡmənt/
US
/ˈfræɡmənt/
fragment Word Etymology
Fragment: frag- = break + ment = result of. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a statue where a piece has broken off, symbolizing a fragment that is still a part of the whole.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I pick up a page and pull at its corner until a small piece slips free. I hold the fragment and turn it over, watching the edge catch the light as I adjust my grip. The missing context makes the whole scene feel different, so I shift my thoughts to see how this piece fits with the rest. I place it on the table and keep thinking about how it could work in a larger story or a spoken line.
Real Context
Fragment refers to a small piece broken off from a larger whole, such as a fragment of pottery, glass, or bone. It can also describe an incomplete part of a larger whole, like a fragment of a story or a paragraph that leaves something out. In writing and speech, you might mention a text fragment or a fragment of information that hints at more but does not present the full picture. As a verb, to fragment means to break into pieces or to cause something to become divided. The word invites us to notice what is present and what is missing, and to imagine the rest.
Usage Reminders
- Think of fragment as a small piece, not the whole
- Use fragment for text excerpts or for broken pieces
- As a verb, fragment means to break apart
- Plurals: fragment, fragments
- Mask the difference between fragment and piece by context
- Avoid treating a sentence fragment as a complete sentence
Common Misconceptions
- A fragment is always a tiny physical piece; it also means an incomplete part of a whole.
- A sentence fragment is a complete sentence when used in writing.
- Fragment is never synonymous with piece; context matters.
- The verb form fragment means to break into pieces, not to summarize.
- Fragments and excerpts are not interchangeable in technical writing.
Thinking Differences
Fragment is a common, versatile word in English with clear distinctions between a physical piece, a textual excerpt, and a verb meaning to break apart.
Learning Tips
- Practice with both physical and textual contexts.
- Create sentences using fragment as a noun and as a verb.
- Compare fragment with similar words like piece, excerpt, and segment.
- Pay attention to plural: fragments.
- Remember sentence fragment vs complete sentence in grammar.
- Store common collocations: fragment of glass, text fragment, fragmented report.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'fragment'?
A.Detailed
B.Large portion
C.Complete
D.Small piece
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'fragment' used correctly?
A.She read the whole book, except for a big fragment of it.
B.The mirror shattered into a fragment of glass.
C.He likes to eat fragment pieces of cake.
D.Can you fragment me a glass of water?
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'fragment'?
A.Entirety
B.Piece
C.Segment
D.Shatter
Step 4: Opposite Words
In a real-life context, how would you describe a 'fragment' of a story?
A.A small part of the plot
B.A complete chapter
C.An entire book
D.A detailed summary
Step 5: Mastery
Explain why it is important to not rely solely on a fragment of information.
A.Because fragments are always accurate
B.Because fragments can provide a full picture
C.Because fragments are easy to understand
D.Because context can be missing from a fragment
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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