Disintegration: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is used to describe the process of something breaking down into smaller parts, usually over time. It can refer to both physical and metaphorical breakdowns.

• The disintegration of the ancient manuscript made it impossible to read.
• The disintegration of the team’s unity was evident after the loss.

This word is used when something is completely ruined or devastated, often by external forces, and commonly carries a sense of finality.

• The hurricane caused massive destruction along the coast.
• The war led to the near-total destruction of the city.

This term is used to describe the gradual worsening of something in quality, condition, or function. It often implies a slow process.

• There has been a noticeable deterioration in her health over the past year.
• The building showed signs of deterioration after decades of neglect.

This is used to describe the gradual process of rotting or decomposing, especially in organic matter. It can also describe the decline of structures or morals over time.

• The fruit was left out too long and began to decay.
• The decay of traditional values is a common complaint among older generations.

Typically used to describe a failure of a system, machine, or relationship. It often implies a sudden stop or malfunction.

• The car experienced a sudden breakdown in the middle of the highway.
• After weeks of arguments, their relationship finally reached a breakdown.

Used when referring to something breaking down into smaller parts, especially over time, and often in a physical sense.

• The disintegration of the old building was accelerated by the harsh weather
• His mental disintegration was tragic to witness

Used to talk about something breaking into many smaller, often disconnected or isolated, parts.

• The fragmentation of the forest habitat endangers many species
• The fragmentation of her thoughts made it hard for her to concentrate

Often used to describe a sudden and complete failure or falling apart, generally in a structural or organizational context.

• The bridge collapse led to a major traffic disruption
• The financial collapse of the company stunned the market

Typically used in a formal or legal context to refer to the official ending of a partnership, marriage, or organization.

• The dissolution of the marriage was finalized last year
• The dissolution of the parliament was announced amid political turmoil

Commonly used in personal relationships or to refer to the ending of a partnership or organization.

• Their breakup was painful for both of them
• The breakup of the company resulted in many employees losing their jobs

Use this term when referring to the process of breaking apart into smaller fragments or losing cohesion. Often used in a physical, social, or organizational context.

• The disintegration of the old building was inevitable due to years of neglect
• The company's sudden disintegration surprised many employees
• The social disintegration caused by war had long-lasting effects

Relevant in scientific or biological contexts, especially when referring to the breakdown of organic matter into simpler substances.

• The leaves on the forest floor were in various stages of decomposition
• Scientists study decomposition to understand ecological systems
• The body's decomposition was accelerated in the humid environment

Commonly used in psychological, chemical, or social contexts to describe the separation of connected elements. Can have a negative connotation in psychological contexts where it refers to a mental process.

• In chemistry, dissociation refers to the separation of molecules into smaller components
• The patient's dissociation from reality concerned the doctors
• His mental dissociation was triggered by the traumatic event

A general term used across various contexts to describe the act or process of dividing or being divided into parts. It can be physical, emotional, or organizational.

• The separation of the twins at birth was a difficult decision for the family
• After years of marriage, they decided on a trial separation
• The separation of church and state is a fundamental principle in many countries