Meaning
分解 means to break something down into smaller parts or components. It can refer to physical decomposition (like organic matter breaking down), chemical decomposition, or analytical decomposition (breaking a complex problem into simpler parts). The word combines 分 (to divide) and 解 (to untie/解开), creating the meaning of dividing something to understand or process it better.
Usage
分解 is commonly used in scientific, technical, and analytical contexts. In chemistry, it refers to decomposition reactions. In problem-solving, it means breaking down complex issues into manageable parts. It's more formal than everyday speech and frequently appears in academic or professional settings.
Examples
- 01这个复杂的问题需要分解成几个小问题来解决。.This complex problem needs to be broken down into several smaller problems to solve.
- 02有机物在土壤中会自然分解。.Organic matter will naturally decompose in the soil.
Characters
Common collocations
- 分解动作to break down a movement (into steps)
- 化学分解chemical decomposition
- 逐步分解to break down step by step
- 分解成to decompose into
Antonyms
Origin
The compound combines 分 (divide) with 解 (untie/解开). Together they create the image of untying something by dividing it into parts, which naturally extends to both physical and analytical decomposition.