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fragmentation
This term carries a strong connotation of loss, decay, or inefficiency. Whether describing a shattered object or a divided society, it suggests a transition from a state of wholeness and unity to one of disorder and dysfunction. It is frequently used in academic, technical, and political discourse to describe a systemic failure where the parts no longer work together as a cohesive unit.
In terms of grammar, this noun is typically used as an uncountable mass noun when referring to the general process or state of being broken. However, it can be used as a countable noun when referring to specific instances or types of fragmentation, such as different patterns of data fragmentation in computing.
Meanings
The process or state of breaking or being broken into small, separate parts.
The fragmentation of the ancient pottery made it difficult to reconstruct the vase.
The division of a larger group, organization, or political entity into smaller, often conflicting, factions.
Political fragmentation has led to a series of unstable coalition governments.
Examples
The fragmentation of the glass caused several small shards to scatter.
Social fragmentation often occurs when diverse groups stop communicating with each other.
Regular software tools can fix the fragmentation of a computer hard drive.