divide in half

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "divide in half" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means to split something into two equal parts. Example: The teacher asked the students to divide the class into two groups. She instructed them to divide in half based on their birthdays, with those born in January to June in one group and those born in July to December in the other.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"Literally the streets divide in half," she said.

The Guardian

Punch down the dough, divide in half and place one half in each prepared pan.

The New York Times - Magazine

Divide in half and, on a lightly rice-floured surface, form into cylinders about 4cm thick.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Divide in half and form each half into an 8-inch log about 3/4of an inch in diameter.

The New York Times - Magazine

Once the pastry has rested, remove from the fridge, divide in half and on a well-floured surface roll one half out in a circular shape to an eighth of an inch thick.

Independent

It's much easier to work with smaller pies, so I divide into three portions dough that I usually divide in half, and I roll them to approximately 10-inch disks.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

"They left a country divided in half.

The New York Times

Tap, and it divides in half.

The Guardian - Tech

Today, the nursery comprises a giant greenhouse, divided in half.

The New York Times - Travel

More typical at 907 were floors divided in half.

The New York Times

The laundry is divided in half, with Marc doing the darks and Amy doing the lights.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to "divide in half", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you expect an exact division or an approximate one. For precise scenarios, specify the use of tools or methods to guarantee accuracy.

Common error

Avoid using "divide in half" when the context implies unequal portions are needed. Use more specific language like "divide proportionally" or "divide according to needs" to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "divide in half" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the action of separating something into two equal portions. Ludwig provides many examples in diverse context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "divide in half" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that instructs or describes the action of separating something into two equal portions. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across various contexts, including news, science, and general knowledge. While simple, it's crucial to ensure the context clarifies whether an exact or approximate division is intended. Alternative phrases like "halve", "bisect", or "split in half" offer different shades of meaning and formality. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse communication scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

halve

A concise verb directly indicating the act of making something half its original size or amount.

split evenly

Emphasizes the equal distribution resulting from the division.

cut in two

Focuses on the physical action of dividing something with a cutting motion.

bisect

A more formal and technical term for dividing into two equal parts.

break in two pieces

Highlights the act of breaking to obtain two portions.

separate into two equal parts

A more descriptive and less concise way of expressing the same action.

portion out equally

Highlights the act of distributing something in equal amounts after dividing it.

share fifty-fifty

Indicates dividing something into two parts with a focus on fairness in distribution.

demarcate into halves

Focuses on setting boundaries to create two equal portions.

go fifty-fifty

Emphasizes a financial or collaborative arrangement to share equally after dividing a cost or responsibility.

FAQs

How can I use "divide in half" in a sentence?

You can use "divide in half" when you want to split something into two equal portions. For example, "Divide the dough in half before rolling it out."

What's the difference between "divide in half" and "split in half"?

The phrases "divide in half" and "split in half" are largely interchangeable, both meaning to separate something into two equal parts. The choice often comes down to stylistic preference.

Is it always necessary to specify "in half" after "divide"?

While specifying "in half" clarifies that you want two equal portions, the context often makes it clear. If the context suggests another division, then specifying "in half" is important.

What are some alternative ways to say "divide in half"?

Alternatives to "divide in half" include "halve", "bisect", or "cut in two", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.