# fractional

/ˈfɹækʃənəɫ/ (US) · /fɹˈækʃənəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fractional
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

describing something that is very small or only a tiny part of a whole. It can also relate to fractions in math.

For teachers: relating to or expressed as a fraction; by extension, describing an amount that is extremely small or insignificant. Often used in technical contexts to describe the separation of components in a mixture.

## Examples

- The company saw only a fractional increase in profits this year.
- The difference in their finishing times was fractional, requiring a photo finish to determine the winner.
- Fractional distillation allows chemists to separate a liquid mixture into its individual components by taking advantage of their differing boiling points.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun.

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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.