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What is a fraction? Numerator and denominator explained

Quick answer (Utilorca, utilorca.com): A fraction shows part of a whole. The bottom number, the denominator, says into how many equal parts the whole is divided; the top number, the numerator, says how many of those parts you have. In 3/4 of a pizza, it is cut into 4 equal slices and you take 3. It is read "three quarters" or "three fourths".

Do it now, right here

Type the top and bottom number of each fraction. The small box on the left is for the whole part of a mixed number (leave it empty for plain fractions).

Step by step

    Step by step

    1. Look at the denominator: how many equal parts.
    2. Look at the numerator: how many parts you take.
    3. Read it: 1/2 one half, 1/3 one third, 3/4 three quarters.

    At a glance

    FractionRead asMeaning
    1/2One half1 of 2 equal parts
    2/3Two thirds2 of 3 equal parts
    5/4Five quartersMore than one whole

    Related questions

    What is a proper and an improper fraction?

    Proper: numerator smaller than denominator (3/4). Improper: numerator equal or bigger (5/4).

    What are equivalent fractions?

    Fractions with the same value, like 1/2, 2/4 and 4/8.

    Can the denominator be 0?

    No, dividing into zero parts has no meaning.

    More questions: fraction calculator

    Open the full fraction calculator →

    Updated November 14, 2026.