división
/dibiˈsjon/
The English word 'partition' can be translated into Spanish as división.
división refers to a vertical structure that divides a room. In formal or technical settings, it is the common way to express this concept.
Meaning: vertical structure that divides a room (noun)
Which one should you use?
While división refers to the act or result of dividing, the word tabique is the more specific term for a physical partition wall or bulkhead used in construction. If you are referring to a partition of information, such as in financial or statistical contexts, use desglose.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, it is more common to say división or separación instead of partición.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun división is feminine, so it is preceded by the feminine article la. The plural form of división is divisiones.
How do you pronounce it?
/dibiˈsjon/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, the word tabique refers both to a physical partition wall in a building and to the nasal septum inside the human nose.
- The word desglose is used when partitioning data or costs, but it literally stems from the idea of 'unfolding' or 'unrolling' something to see its parts.
- While división is a cognate of the English 'division', using it to describe a wall in a house might sound overly mathematical or abstract to a native speaker.
Examples in context
- Necesitamos una división clara entre las dos áreas.We need a clear division between the two areas.
- La ley exige una clara división de los bienes heredados.The law requires a clear division of the inherited assets.
- La división es de madera.The partition is made of wood.
- Necesitamos instalar una división nueva.We need to install a new partition.
- Esa división separa la oficina del pasillo.That partition separates the office from the hallway.
Example conversation
María and Alejandro are looking at an office floor plan.
- María¿Dónde pondremos la división?Where will we put the partition?
- AlejandroLa división puede ir junto a la ventana.The partition can go next to the window.
- MaríaMe parece una buena idea, Alejandro.That seems like a good idea, Alejandro.
- AlejandroPerfecto, yo compraré los materiales.Perfect, I will buy the materials.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry división, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
