Compartmentalization: meaning, definitions and examples

📦
Add to dictionary

compartmentalization

 

[ ˌkɒmpɑːtˌmen.təlaɪˈzeɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in psychology

Compartmentalization is a defense mechanism where a person separates conflicting thoughts or emotions into different compartments of their mind.

Synonyms

division, segregation, separation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
compartmentalization

Used when referring to the process of dividing something into distinct sections, especially in an organizational or psychological context. It often suggests meticulous order or the separation of roles and responsibilities.

  • The compartmentalization of tasks in the project made it easier to manage.
  • Psychological compartmentalization can help people cope with stressful events by isolating them mentally.
segregation

Often used in social contexts to describe the act of separating groups based on characteristics like race, gender, or religion. It has a strong negative connotation when associated with unfair or discriminatory practices.

  • Racial segregation was legally enforced in some countries in the 20th century.
  • The segregation of duties within the company helps prevent fraud.
separation

A general term used for the act of keeping things apart. It is often used in personal relationships, physical spaces, and processes.

  • The separation of church and state is an important principle in many democracies.
  • They decided on a trial separation to see if they could resolve their issues.
division

Refers to the act of separating something into parts or groups. It is often used in general contexts, including mathematics, organizational structures, and physical objects.

  • The division of the company into smaller units improved efficiency.
  • In mathematics, division is one of the basic arithmetic operations.

Examples of usage

  • She was able to deal with the stress of her job by compartmentalization, keeping her work life separate from her personal life.
  • His compartmentalization of his feelings allowed him to stay focused during difficult times.
Context #2 | Noun

in business

Compartmentalization refers to the practice of separating different aspects or departments of a business to enhance efficiency and organization.

Synonyms

categorization, isolation, segmentation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
compartmentalization

This is a duplicate of the first word mentioned.

  • Not applicable
segmentation

Commonly used in business or marketing to divide a market or audience into distinct groups based on specific criteria.

  • Market segmentation helps companies target the right audience
isolation

Used in social and psychological contexts to describe the state of being separated from others, either physically or emotionally. Can have a negative connotation.

  • The island's isolation made it an ideal retreat for writers
categorization

Refers to the process of sorting items into categories based on shared characteristics, often used in academic or scientific contexts.

  • The librarian focused on the categorization of the new books

Examples of usage

  • The company's compartmentalization of its projects helped streamline the workflow and improve productivity.
  • Effective compartmentalization of resources can lead to better coordination and communication within a company.

Translations

Translations of the word "compartmentalization" in other languages:

🇵🇹 compartimentalização

🇮🇳 विभाजन

🇩🇪 Kompartimentierung

🇮🇩 pembagian

🇺🇦 компартменталізація

🇵🇱 kompartmentalizacja

🇯🇵 区画化

🇫🇷 compartimentation

🇪🇸 compartimentación

🇹🇷 bölümlendirme

🇰🇷 구획화

🇸🇦 تقسيم

🇨🇿 kompartmentalizace

🇸🇰 kompartmentalizácia

🇨🇳 分隔

🇸🇮 kompartmentalizacija

🇮🇸 hólfa niður

🇰🇿 бөлшектеу

🇬🇪 დაყოფა

🇦🇿 bölmə

🇲🇽 compartimentación

Etymology

The term 'compartmentalization' originated in the field of psychology to describe the process of separating conflicting thoughts or emotions. Over time, it has been adopted in various fields, including business, to refer to the practice of dividing different aspects or departments for improved efficiency. The concept of compartmentalization has become widely recognized as a useful strategy for managing complex systems and enhancing productivity.

See also: compartmentalized, compartmentalizers.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,636 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.