one of several parts into which a story, plan, or amount of money owed has been divided, so that each part happens or is paid at different times until the end or total is reached(小说分期连载的)一节;(分期付款的)一期
The novel has been serialized for radio in five instalments.这部小说已在电台进行了5次分期播送。
We agreed to pay for the car by/in instalments.我们同意分期付款购买小汽车。