Apart vs A Part
What’s the difference between them?
Apart
Meaning:
Apart means separately or apart from each other.
Examples:
1. We can no longer be apart due to the new quarantine regulations.
2. She kept them apart so that they wouldn't fight.
3. The two buildings are only a few feet apart.
A Part
Meaning:
A Part (noun): A segment or portion of something; a distinct element, component, or fraction of something larger.
Examples:
1. A part of the house had been eaten away by termites.
2. We each have a part to play in making this project successful.
3. I was only a part of the team, so I didn't have much say in the matter.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Apart
1. Separate
2. Disjoin
3. Divest
4. Diverge
5. Break up
1. Together
2. Connect
3. Join
4. Unite
5. Combine
A Part
1. Component
2. Element
3. Fraction
4. Piece
5. Segment
1. The Whole
2. Nothing
3. The Opposite
4. Separate
5. Reverse
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Apart", "A Part".
1. Apart is an adverb that means 'separately' or 'individually.'
2. A part is a noun phrase that means 'one of the pieces' or 'one of the components.'
3. When you come across the word 'apart' in a sentence, think about whether it is being used to describe something being separate or individual.
4. If the word is being used to describe something being a piece of a greater whole, then the word is probably 'a part'.
5. If you are unsure, plug both words into the sentence and see which one makes more sense.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
The word 'apart' should be used to describe a situation where things are separated or not connected. An example of this would be, 'We sat apart from one another during the meeting.'
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
The word 'a part' is used when referring to a portion or component of something. An example of this would be, 'The blueberries were a part of the smoothie.'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. The word 'apart' is pronounced with a short 'a' sound (ah-part), whereas the word 'a part' is pronounced with a long 'a' sound (ay-part).
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
Common mistakes when using these words include confusing the two in writing, or mispronouncing one or the other. For example, someone might write 'I took a part of the cake,' when they meant to write 'I took apart the cake.'
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. We can work together to solve the problem, each of us playing ________ in the process.
2. Its important to treat others with respect, taking a ________ in the conversation.
3. I always try to think of creative solutions, taking the whole picture ________.
4. Its hard to remain impartial in a conflict, but its important to be ________ from the situation.
5. Im looking forward to the holidays, but Im also sad they will soon be ________.
6. Working together, we can make a ________ effort to reduce our carbon footprint.
1. We can work together to solve the problem, each of us playing a part in the process.
Explanation: The phrase a part would indicate that each individual is contributing to the whole, which is necessary to complete the task.
2. Its important to treat others with respect, taking a part in the conversation.
Explanation: The phrase a part here suggests that each individual is making a meaningful contribution to the dialogue, which helps to ensure mutual respect.
3. I always try to think of creative solutions, taking the whole picture apart.
Explanation: The phrase apart indicates that the individual is breaking down the problem into smaller components in order to gain a better understanding of the situation and come up with a creative solution.
4. Its hard to remain impartial in a conflict, but its important to be apart from the situation.
Explanation: Here, the phrase apart suggests that one should maintain a distance from the situation in order to be objective and impartial.
5. Im looking forward to the holidays, but Im also sad they will soon be apart.
Explanation: The phrase apart here implies that the holidays are transient and will soon be gone, leaving behind a sense of sadness.
6. Working together, each of us can be a part of reducing our carbon footprint.
Explanation: The phrase a part here suggests that each of the individuals can improve the environment.
Get a gift by subscribing to our newsletter!
Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.