# bifurcated

/ˈbaɪfɝˌkeɪtɪd/ (US) · /baɪfˈɜːkeɪtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bifurcated
Updated: 2026-07-31

## Definition

divided into two separate parts or branches. You use this to describe something that splits, like a road or a river.

For teachers: divided into two branches or parts. Often describes physical structures, organisational paths, or legal processes that split into two distinct directions.

## Examples

- The hiking trail bifurcated into two different paths.
- The river bifurcated around the small island, creating two distinct channels that rejoined further downstream.
- The legal proceedings were bifurcated to allow the court to determine liability before addressing the complex issue of financial damages.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in technical, legal, or scientific contexts to describe a physical or conceptual split.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.