Word: Compartmentalise (British English) / Compartmentalize (American English)
Definition: To compartmentalise means to separate things into different categories or sections so that they do not mix with each other. This can apply to physical spaces, like rooms, or more abstract ideas, such as emotions or responsibilities.
Usage Instructions: - Use "compartmentalise" when talking about organizing different aspects of life, work, or thoughts. - It is often used in discussions about managing stress or responsibilities, where someone might keep different areas of their life separate to avoid confusion or overwhelm.
Example Sentence: - "She tried to compartmentalise her work and personal life, but sometimes it was difficult to keep them apart."
Advanced Usage: In a more complex context, you might use "compartmentalise" to discuss mental processes, such as how someone deals with trauma or stress by keeping their feelings in separate 'compartments' in their mind.
Word Variants: - Compartmentalisation (British English) / Compartmentalization (American English) - This is the noun form, referring to the act or process of compartmentalising. - Compartment (noun) - a part or section that is divided from others.
Different Meanings:While "compartmentalise" generally refers to separation, it can also imply a lack of integration, which may have negative connotations in some contexts, such as when it leads to emotional detachment.
Synonyms: - Separate - Divide - Isolate - Distinguish - Segregate
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:There aren’t specific idioms directly related to "compartmentalise," but you might hear phrases like: - "Put it in a box" - used to mean to stop thinking about something for now. - "Keep it separate" - meaning to maintain boundaries between different areas of life.