Fractionated: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used in scientific or technical contexts, especially when referring to the process of breaking something down into smaller parts or fractions.

• The crude oil was fractionated into various components.
• The protein was fractionated to study its structure.

Typically used when referring to the process of keeping things or people apart. This word can also carry a negative connotation when talking about relationships or social contexts.

• The substances were separated in the lab.
• After the argument, the couple decided to live separated for a while.

General term when something is split into parts. Commonly used in day-to-day conversations and various contexts.

• The cake was divided among the children.
• The country was divided by war.

Often used in reference to something that is divided into clear, distinct sections or segments.

• The marketing report was segmented by demographic groups.
• The worm’s body was segmented into several parts.

Use when something is divided into smaller, equal parts, often in scientific or technical settings.

• The chemist fractionated the mixture to isolate the pure substance.
• The company fractionated the production process to increase efficiency.

Used to describe something that is broken into smaller pieces, often irregularly or destructively.

• The glass fragmented into tiny shards.
• The narrative of the film was fragmented and hard to follow.

Best used when something breaks down into smaller pieces, often with a sense of collapsing or falling apart completely.

• The old building disintegrated over time due to neglect.
• The relationship disintegrated after many arguments.

Appropriate when elements are separated from a whole, often used in psychological or scientific terms.

• The scientist studied how the molecule dissociated in the solution.
• He felt dissociated from his past experiences.