split apart

USAGE SUMMARY

"split apart" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe the action of separating something into two or more parts. For example: "The task took a significant amount of time and required us to split apart the project into several smaller tasks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It may eventually split apart.

The Economist

Iraq itself would likely split apart.

The New York Times

"I don't want us to split apart".

The New York Times

When the giant's legs split apart, the company of dwarfs is split apart as well.

The New York Times

During nine decades in storage, some canvases had split apart.

The New York Times - Arts

It failed because it split apart instead of remaining united.

The New Yorker

Many families were split apart in these resettlements.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The apples are subtly decaying: a fig has split apart.

The Guardian - Arts

They tell of families terrorized and split apart.

The New York Times

The Robin Moor split apart and sank within minutes.

The New Yorker

Crises should cause alliances to come together, not split apart.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "split apart" to describe a forceful or distinct separation of something into two or more parts. It's particularly effective when emphasizing the division or fracturing of a whole.

Common error

Avoid using "split apart" in overly abstract or metaphorical contexts where simpler terms like "separate" or "divide" would be more appropriate. "Split apart" works best when there's a sense of physical division or forceful separation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "split apart" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, indicating a process of separation or division into two or more parts. Ludwig examples show its usage describing both physical objects breaking and abstract entities like organizations or alliances dissolving. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "split apart" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe the act of something separating into distinct parts, often with a sense of force or division. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media, Science, and encyclopedic contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's most effective when emphasizing a clear or forceful separation. Related phrases include "break up", "fall apart", and "separate", each offering subtle differences in meaning. When writing, be mindful of avoiding overuse in overly abstract contexts, as simpler alternatives might be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

break up

This alternative suggests a disintegration into smaller pieces, similar to "split apart" but can also refer to the end of a relationship.

fall apart

This implies a more gradual disintegration or failure, often due to internal weaknesses, whereas "split apart" can be more sudden or forceful.

come asunder

This alternative is a more formal or literary way of saying "split apart", emphasizing the separation into distinct parts.

disintegrate

Implies a complete breakdown into smaller components, similar to "split apart" in the context of physical objects or structures.

separate

A general term for causing to no longer be together or connected, but less forceful than "split apart".

divide

Indicates a separation into distinct groups or sections, similar to "split apart" but often used in more abstract contexts.

fracture

This alternative describes a break or crack, often in a solid object, suggesting a less complete separation than "split apart".

cleave

To split or sever something, similar to "split apart" but with a sense of force or precision.

bifurcate

Specifically means to divide into two branches or forks, a more specific type of "split apart".

rupture

Suggests a sudden break or tear, often under pressure, similar to "split apart" in describing a forceful separation.

FAQs

How can I use "split apart" in a sentence?

Use "split apart" to describe something that is forcibly or distinctly separated into two or more pieces. For example, "The ship "split apart" during the storm", or "Internal rivalries caused the organization to "split apart"".

What are some alternatives to "split apart"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "break up", "fall apart", or "separate".

Is "split apart" the same as "fall apart"?

"Split apart" implies a more sudden or forceful separation, while "fall apart" suggests a gradual disintegration or failure over time. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the forcefulness or the gradual decay.

When is it appropriate to use "split apart" instead of "divide"?

Use "split apart" when you want to emphasize a physical or forceful separation into distinct parts. "Divide" is a more general term for separating something into groups or sections, without necessarily implying a forceful break.