Fissure: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when describing a long, narrow opening or line of breakage, particularly in rock or other geological formations. It is often used in scientific or technical contexts.

• The geologist studied the fissure in the cliff to determine its cause

This word applies to a narrow opening resulting from a split or crack, typically used to describe something in nature like rock faces, cliffs, or glaciers. It sounds slightly more specific and less general than 'crack'.

• A small animal was hiding in the crevice of the rock
• || The climber placed his hand carefully into the crevice to get a better grip

This word is commonly used to describe a narrow space created by breaking or splitting, especially in a surface like a wall, glass, or pavement. It is the most general term and is often used in everyday language.

• There was a crack in the glass after I dropped the vase
• || The wall showed several cracks after the earthquake

This word is appropriate when referring to a split or indentation in an object or a surface, especially one that is natural in origin. It is also commonly used to describe parts of the body, like a cleft chin.

• Her cleft chin gave her face a distinct appearance
• || The tree had a cleft that made it look as if it were splitting in two

Typically used in geology or medical contexts to describe a narrow opening or crack, especially in rocks, earth, or in the body.

• The earthquake caused a deep fissure in the ground
• The doctor noted a small fissure in the patient's bone

Often used to refer to a split or indentation in the skin or earth, or as a term in biology for naturally occurring splits or spaces in tissues.

• The child was born with a cleft palate
• The mountain climbers found shelter in a cleft in the rock

Commonly used to refer to dividing something into parts or groups, or a disagreement within a group. It can also denote physical separation.

• There was a split in the team over the strategy
• She managed to split the wood into smaller pieces

Used to describe a serious break or gap, typically in relationships, as well as geological features. Often has a negative connotation in personal contexts.

• A rift developed between the two friends after the argument
• The landscape was marked by a wide rift