fragmentary - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
fragmentary Word Meanings
- consisting of fragments
- not complete
- in parts or pieces
fragmentary Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
fragmentary Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfræɡ.mənt.əri/
US
/ˈfræɡ.mən.tɛri/
fragmentary Word Etymology
Root: fragment (from Latin 'fragmentum', meaning broken piece) + suffix '-ary' (pertaining to). Historical origin: Latin → Middle English. Memory image: Picture a shattered vase, its beautiful fragments scattered, representing the incomplete nature of something once 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 InputReal Context
Fragmentary means made up of fragments and not complete, existing only in parts or pieces. It is used to describe evidence, memories, plans, or records that are broken or partial in nature, emphasizing the incomplete, scattered character of the whole. Compared with incomplete or partial, fragmentary highlights the disjointed pieces and gaps that prevent forming a cohesive whole. In academic or formal writing it can signal limited but suggestive information; in everyday speech it often describes information that is scattered and needs more data to form a clear conclusion. A vivid image is a shattered vase whose fragments hint at the original shape but do not convey the full story.
Usage Reminders
- Use for partial information; avoid implying a complete analysis; pair with context clues; prefer in formal writing when evidence is incomplete; contrast with complete, whole, or entire.
Common Misconceptions
- Assuming fragmentary means random or careless.
- Confusing fragmentary with incomplete to imply total lack of value.
- Thinking fragmentary only refers to physical objects, not ideas.
- Believing fragmentary applies only to historical contexts.
- Using fragmentary when a stronger word (partial, incomplete) would fit.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often rely on a single word to capture both partiality and torn coherence; learners should note that fragmentary emphasizes broken pieces rather than just being incomplete.
Learning Tips
- Pair fragmentary with context clues (evidence, memory, plan) to pin its meaning.
- Contrast with complete or whole to see the difference.
- Use in formal writing to describe gaps in data.
- Notice the emotional tone: it often conveys fragility or incompleteness.
- Practice replacing fragmentary with more precise terms when possible, like partial or incomplete.
- Read and listen for collocations like fragmentary evidence, fragmentary memory, fragmentary history.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'fragmentary' mean?
A.Complete and whole
B.Clear and detailed
C.Disjointed or incomplete
D.Consistent and uniform
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'fragmentary' correctly.
A.She loves reading fragmentary things like novels and biographies.
B.The lecture was very fragmentary and hard to follow.
C.His fragmentary knowledge of the subject made him confident.
D.The document was fragmentary, providing a thorough overview.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'fragmentary'?
A.Complete
B.Entire
C.Partial
D.Whole
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'fragmentary'?
A.Broken
B.Cohesive
C.Scattered
D.Incomplete
Step 5: Mastery
In what context can 'fragmentary' be used?
A.She pieced together a fragmentary account of the event from various sources.
B.The presentation was comprehensive and well-structured.
C.The book provided a fragmentary view of history, covering all aspects.
D.He delivered a thorough and articulate speech on the topic.
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