Decomposition: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in scientific or natural contexts when referring to the process by which organic substances are broken down into simpler forms. Often associated with biology, chemistry, and natural decay.

• The decomposition of the dead leaves provided essential nutrients to the soil.
• Microorganisms play a key role in the decomposition of organic matter.

Often used in mechanical, technical, or organizational contexts to refer to the failure or separation of parts. It can also be used in a more general sense to indicate the separation of something into its component parts.

• The breakdown of the engine was caused by a lack of maintenance.
• Can you give me a breakdown of the project costs?

Commonly used in academic, scientific, and professional settings to refer to the detailed examination of something, usually to understand it better or to draw conclusions from it.

• The analysis of the data revealed significant trends in consumer behavior.
• A thorough analysis of the text provided deeper insights into the author's themes.

Refers to the process of something breaking into small pieces or losing its cohesive structure. It can be used both literally and metaphorically and often has a negative connotation.

• The disintegration of the ancient ruins was accelerated by exposure to the elements.
• The political party's disintegration led to a loss of public trust.

Typically used in scientific contexts to discuss the breakdown of complex substances into simpler ones. Often used to explain chemical or biological processes.

• The decomposition of organic material releases nutrients into the soil.
• Scientists studied the decomposition rate of the new biodegradable plastic.

Often used in a broader, non-scientific context to imply deterioration or decline, whether physical, moral, or social. It can describe the breakdown of organic matter as well.

• The abandoned house showed signs of decay.
• Tooth decay is a common problem in children.
• Over time, the leaves will decay, enriching the soil.

Typically used to describe the process of organic matter breaking down and becoming foul. It usually has a negative connotation and is often associated with bad odors and spoilage.

• If you leave the fruit out too long, it will start to rot.
• Wooden beams in the old barn have begun to rot.
• The smell of rot filled the room when we opened the old refrigerator.

Generally used in environmental science to describe the process by which organic substances are broken down by living organisms, usually bacteria or fungi.

• The biodegradation of plastics is a crucial aspect of waste management.
• This detergent is designed to undergo rapid biodegradation in the environment.

Used in scientific contexts to describe the process by which a substance or material breaks down into simpler parts, often in biology and chemistry.

• The decomposition of the animal's body takes several weeks.
• Researchers are studying the decomposition of plastic in the ocean.

Generally refers to the process of breaking into smaller parts or components. Can be used in both scientific and non-scientific contexts, such as technology, machinery, and mental health.

• The car's breakdown left us stranded on the highway.
• She suffered a mental breakdown after the tragic event.

Typically used in chemistry to describe the separation of a compound into two or more ions or molecules. It is also used in psychology to describe a state in which a person feels disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, or identity.

• The dissociation of salts in water is a common topic in chemistry classes.
• She experienced dissociation as a result of severe trauma.

A specific term used in chemistry to describe a reaction in which a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances.

• In a decomposition reaction, water can be broken down into hydrogen and oxygen gases.
• The lab experiment focused on observing a decomposition reaction.