C1adjective 3K

Partial

UK //ˈpɑːʃəl// US //ˈpɑːrʃəl// Pronunciation

Definition

Being or involving only a part; incomplete.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Not complete; only a part of something.

Examples

• He gave a partial refund for the product.
• The study focused on a partial aspect of the issue.
• There was a partial eclipse visible today.
• She had only a partial understanding of the subject.
• The agreement was only a partial solution to the problem.

Usage notes

Use 'partial' to describe something that is incomplete or only a part of a whole. Suitable in formal and academic contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'part' in 'partial' - it means just a piece.

Collocations

• partial payment
• partial success
• partial view
• partial ownership

Synonyms

• incomplete
• limited
• fractional
• segmental

Antonyms

• complete
• total
• full

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'impartial', which means unbiased.
• Used inappropriately to describe something positive.
• Incorrectly paired with non-count nouns.