B2noun2K

Fraction

UK /["/ˈfrækʃn/"]/US /["/ˈfrækʃn/"]/

Definition

a small part or amount of something

In simple words: A part of a whole, often shown as a number with a top and a bottom.

Examples

  • Only a small fraction of a bank's total deposits will be withdrawn at any one time.
  • She hesitated for the merest fraction of a second.
  • He raised his voice a fraction.
  • A mere fraction of available wind energy is currently utilized.
  • The average income is high, though many people earn just a fraction of that average.
  • Why not grow your own fruit at a fraction of the price?
  • How do you express 25% as a fraction?
  • The third fraction contains alcohols with boiling points of 120–130℃.

Usage notes

Used in math and everyday situations to describe dividing things. It may not be used in casual conversations unless discussing specific math topics.

Grammar pattern

fraction + of + whole

Memory hint

Think of a 'fraction' like a tiny piece of a delicious cake, it's not the whole cake!

Collocations

  • large
  • significant
  • sizeable
  • fraction of
  • just a fraction
  • only a fraction
  • vulgar
  • decimal
  • improper
  • express something as

Synonyms

  • rational number

Antonyms

  • whole
  • entirety

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'fractional' which means something that is in part.
  • Omitting the word 'of' when describing parts, e.g., saying '1/2 cake' instead of '1/2 of a cake'.
  • Using it incorrectly with non-numerical contexts.