Partitive

usgb/ˈpɑːrtətɪv/
adjective

Related to a grammatical concept where something is not seen as a whole but in parts.

In the sentence 'I only want some of the cake', 'some' is a partitive word.
Visual representation of "partitive" - Related to a grammatical concept where something is not seen as a whole but in parts

Often appears as...

  • 'partitive case'
  • 'partitive article'

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "partitive"
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Fractional Quantities

Partitives show fractional quantities, often used with food, substances, or abstract ideas.

Illustration for Fractional Quantities
I drank some of the water.
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Indefinite Quantities

Use partitives when the exact amount is unknown or unimportant.

Illustration for Indefinite Quantities
She did part of the work.
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Context Sensitivity

Partitives can change meaning with context; 'some' can imply a small or a large amount.

Illustration for Context Sensitivity
I need some nails for this project.
Visual representation of the word "Partitive"

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