# subsection

/ˈsəbsɛkʃən/ (US) · /sʌbsˈɛkʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/subsection
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a smaller part of a larger section in a document or a law. You use this to find specific information within a long chapter or report.

For teachers: a distinct, smaller division of a larger section within a text, legal document, or classification system. Often used to organize complex information into manageable, hierarchical parts.

## Examples

- Please read the third subsection of the contract.
- The legal team spent hours debating the specific wording found in subsection 4b of the new environmental law.
- While the main chapter outlines the general theory of plant classification, the final subsection provides a detailed list of rare species found only in high-altitude alpine environments.

## Usage notes

- Commonly abbreviated as 'subsec.' in legal or academic citations.

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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.