Subdivide: meaning, definitions and examples

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subdivide

[sʌbdɪˈvaɪd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

urban planning

To divide (an area) into smaller sections, typically for development purposes.

Synonyms

divide, partition, segment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subdivide	Used when you need to break something down into smaller parts of an already divided section. It is frequently used in scientific, mathematical, or real estate contexts. The land was subdivided into smaller plots for sale. The data needs to be subdivided for a detailed analysis.
partition	Used when referring to dividing an area or space into distinct sections, often with the use of physical barriers or partitions. It is commonly used in architectural and computing contexts. The office was partitioned with glass walls to provide private workspaces. The hard drive was partitioned to separate the operating system from user files.
segment	Used when referring to dividing something into separate parts or segments, often used in marketing, anatomy, or technical fields. The term emphasizes the distinct sections that can often function independently. The market was segmented based on customer age groups. The worm's body is segmented into multiple sections.
divide	Used when you want to separate something into parts or groups. It is a general term and can be used in many contexts, including mathematical operations, splitting tasks, or discussing social divisions. Let's divide the cake into eight pieces. The teachers decided to divide the students into two groups for the project.

Examples of usage

City officials decided to subdivide the land into residential lots.
The developer plans to subdivide the property into commercial and residential spaces.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

mathematics

To divide (something) into smaller parts or groups.

Synonyms

break down, separate, split.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subdivide	Use when you need to divide something into smaller sections or parts, often in a systematic or planned way. The large plot of land was subdivided into smaller parcels for sale The lecture was subdivided into three main topics
break down	Appropriate when referring to analyzing or understanding complex information by dividing it into more simple parts. It can also mean something that stops functioning. Let's break down this problem into more manageable steps The car broke down on the way to work
separate	Used when you need to keep things or people apart, or to distinguish one from another. You should separate the recyclables from the regular trash They decided to separate after five years of marriage
split	Commonly used when dividing something into two or more parts, often implying a more abrupt or clear division. Sometimes it carries a negative connotation if it implies division or conflict. We split the bill evenly among us There's a split in the community over the new policy

Examples of usage

We need to subdivide the data into categories for analysis.
The students were asked to subdivide the project into manageable tasks.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'subdividere', where 'sub' means 'under' and 'dividere' means 'to divide'.
It emerged in English in the late 14th century, hinting at the process of making something smaller by splitting it.
The prefix 'sub-' has appeared in various words, like 'submarine' and 'subconscious', reflecting the idea of being beneath or under.

Science

In biology, subdivisions can refer to breaking down ecosystems into smaller segments for study, aiding in conservation.
In geometry, subdivisions help in creating complex shapes by breaking them into simpler forms for easier analysis.
In urban planning, subdividing land is essential for development, allowing for organized layouts of buildings and roads.

Mathematics

Subdividing shapes, like triangles, is a technique used in computer graphics to create smoother surfaces.
The process of subdivision is key in calculus, as it allows for finding areas under curves by breaking them into smaller, manageable sections.
In algebra, subdividing problems often aids in simplifying equations to find solutions more easily.

Literature

Authors sometimes subdivide chapters into sections to create a more organized narrative flow and improve readability.
In poetry, dividing verses into stanzas can change how the poem feels and make it easier for readers to digest.
Many novels have subdivisions like 'Part 1', 'Part 2', which guide readers through the progression of the story.

Architecture

The concept of subdividing plots is essential in urban design as it outlines the blueprint for cities and neighborhoods.
Land subdivision requires adherence to local zoning laws, affecting how spaces are developed and used.
Architects often subdivide designs into components to facilitate better planning and ensure structural integrity.

Translations

Translations of the word "subdivide" in other languages:

🇵🇹 subdividir

🇮🇳 उपविभाजित करना

🇩🇪 unterteilen

🇮🇩 membagi-bagi

🇺🇦 поділяти

🇵🇱 podzielić na mniejsze części

🇯🇵 細分する (saibun suru)

🇫🇷 subdiviser

🇪🇸 subdividir

🇹🇷 alt bölümlere ayırmak

🇰🇷 세분하다 (sebunhada)

🇸🇦 تقسيم إلى أجزاء أصغر (taqsim 'iilaa 'ajza' 'asghar)

🇨🇿 podělit

🇸🇰 rozdeliť na menšie časti

🇨🇳 细分 (xì fēn)

🇸🇮 razdeliti na manjše dele

🇮🇸 skipta niður

🇰🇿 бөлшектеу

🇬🇪 ქვემდებარება (kvemdebureba)

🇦🇿 bölmək

🇲🇽 subdividir

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,572, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
22569 languishing
22570 sprayer
22571 confidentially
22572 subdivide
22573 elegy
22574 retro
22575 sculpted
...