分为 fēnwéi to divide something into (parts)
to divide something into (parts); to subdivide
How to remember 分为: 分 divide + 为 for = to divide something into (parts).
Characters
How it is used
- A formal verb meaning "to be divided into" - 分为两部分 (fēnwéi liǎng bùfen) divided into two parts - always followed by a number + measure word + noun.
- Written/expository register, common in textbooks and explanations; casual speech tends to use 分成 (fēnchéng) instead.
- Don't confuse with 分 alone (to divide/split) - 分为 specifically introduces the resulting categories.
Example sentences
- 那本词典分为两卷。 Nà běncídiǎn fēnwéi liǎngjuǎn.The dictionary comes in two volumes.
- 赤道把地球分为两个半球。 Chìdào bǎ dìqiú fēnwéi liǎnggè bànqiú.The equator divides the earth into two hemispheres.