Meaning & use
fraction bar
Last updated
Meaning
nouncountable
The line in a fraction that separates the top number from the bottom number.
Grammar: Countable: one fraction bar, two fraction bars. Often used with 'the' when referring to a specific fraction.
Patterns
- the fraction bar in a fraction
- draw a fraction bar
- above/below the fraction bar
In the fraction 3/4, the fraction bar separates the numerator 3 from the denominator 4.
The teacher asked us to draw a fraction bar and write the numerator above it.
When you type a fraction on a computer, the fraction bar is usually a diagonal slash.
Word forms
| plural | fraction bars |
|---|
Common combinations
- draw a fraction bar
- Draw a fraction bar and label the numerator and denominator.
- above the fraction bar
- The numerator goes above the fraction bar.
- below the fraction bar
- The denominator is written below the fraction bar.
- diagonal fraction bar
- A diagonal fraction bar is often used in text to save space.
Synonyms and how they differ
- vinculum
- A formal mathematical term for a horizontal line used in fractions and other notations; 'fraction bar' is the everyday term learners should use.
Commonly confused: fraction bar or division sign?
fraction bar vs division sign
A division sign (÷) shows division between two numbers, while a fraction bar also represents division but is part of a fraction.
Practice
In the fraction 5/8, what does the fraction bar separate?
Choose one answer.
The fraction bar separates the numerator (5) from the denominator (8). The other options mention parts that are not present in a simple fraction.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “fraction bar”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.