partition - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
partition Word Meanings
- a division into parts
- a structure that separates
- to divide into sections
partition Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
partition Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/pɑːˈtɪʃən/
US
/pɑrˈtɪʃən/
partition Word Etymology
Partitio = division + -ion = action or result; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a pie being sliced into equal partitions to share among friends.
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
A partition can be a physical divider or a software construct that splits a larger whole into parts. As a noun, it denotes a boundary that organizes space, data, or responsibilities, for example a wall, a panel, or a disk division. As a verb, to partition means to divide something into sections or categories, often with clear boundaries. English speakers discuss partitions in homes, offices, and computing, such as memory partitions, database partitions, or partition walls in interior design. The word conveys both design intent and practical constraint, suggesting orderly separation without implying hostility. Learners should note common collocations like partition wall, partition the data, and partitioned arrays or files.
Usage Reminders
- Use partition for both physical walls and data divisions.
- Do not confuse partition with merely dividing or separating.
- Be aware of the noun vs verb forms: partition (n) vs partition (v).
- When talking about computers, specify which resource is partitioned (memory, disk, database).
- Collocations: partition wall, partitioned file, partition the data.
Common Misconceptions
- Partition is only a physical wall and not used for data.
- Confusing partition with 'part' or 'portion'.
- Verb form 'to partition' is transitive and needs an object.
- Using 'partition' for simply splitting without boundaries sounds odd.
- Mixing up 'partition' with 'section' is common in non-technical contexts.
Thinking Differences
In English, partition often signals a deliberate boundary, either physical or logical, and is common in design, IT, and data contexts. Learners may overgeneralize to everyday divisions without a boundary or confuse it with simply 'dividing' something, which sounds vague.
Learning Tips
- Think of partition as boundary-aware: physical walls or data boundaries.
- Differentiate noun vs verb forms and their objects.
- Learn key collocations: partition wall, memory partition, partition the data.
- Compare with nearby words like section, segment, or divide.
- Practice with both real estate and IT contexts.
- Note that partition can imply design as well as constraint.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'partition' mean?
A.Increase in size
B.Separate into parts
C.Combine together
D.Stay the same
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'partition' correctly?
A.The cake was deliciously partitioned for everyone to enjoy.
B.She partitioned her homework directly without distractions.
C.Let's partition our toys and share them equally.
D.They decided to partition the beach into smaller pieces.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'partition'?
A.Divide
B.Combine
C.Merge
D.Unite
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'partition'?
A.Connect
B.Merge
C.Unify
D.Separate
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving separation into parts?
A.A room being divided with a curtain
B.A family picnic by the lake
C.A group of friends playing tennis together
D.A garden full of flowers
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