A Part or Apart?

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What Is the Difference between "A Part" and "Apart"?

"Apart" and "a part" are often confused by writers because they sound identical. Their meanings, of course, are quite different. In fact, they are completely different parts of speech. "Apart" is an adverb. It means "separately." "A part" is a noun phrase ("part" is a noun; "a" is a modifier). It means "a piece" or "a segment." For example:

• Everyone saw the whale apart from John.
(Here, "apart" means "except.")
• Since the argument, we have lived apart.
(Here, "apart" means "separately.")
• I want a part of the estate.
(Here, "a part" means "a piece.")

Quick Test on Apart and A Part

It's your go. Select the correct one:

Apart

"Apart" is an adverb meaning separated by a specified distance in time or space. For example:

• Apart from the wind, it's quite pleasant outside.
• Without hope, the very fabric of our society will fall apart. (Tycoon Theo Paphitis)

A Part

"Part" means a piece or segment of something. "Part" often appears in the phrase "a part." For example:

• Until you have loved an animal, a part of your soul remains unawakened. (Poet Anatole France)
• You simply have to accept that your demons are a part of you. (Singer Aurora)

The article "a" can be dropped when "part" is not followed by an adjective.

• Rumours are part of show business.
• Rumours are a huge part of show business.
(The article "a" is necessary when it is followed by an adjective.)

Common Terms with "Apart" and "A Part"

Common terms with the word "apart":

• apart but together
• worlds apart
• tear apart
• to come apart at the seams
• drift apart
• poles apart

Common terms with the word "a part":

• to play a part (a role)
• to act a part

Ready for the Test?