Part ways

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Part ways" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that two or more people are separating or going in different directions, often after a relationship or collaboration. Example: "After years of working together, they decided to part ways and pursue their individual careers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Part ways with clients who are not partners.

Huffington Post

Part ways on good terms.

WikiHow

We decided to part ways.

The New York Times

And there we part ways.

The New York Times

We part ways.

The Guardian - Music

Here the stories part ways.

The Guardian - Books

Ultimately the two part ways.

The New York Times - Books

After much twisting and turning, the lovers part ways.

The New York Times - Arts

At that point, filmmaker and historian part ways.

The New York Times

This is where I part ways with Baldwin.

The New Yorker

Team Valor and Motion, meanwhile, will part ways after Ascot.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Part ways" when you want to express a formal or neutral separation, whether it's a business relationship, friendship, or other association.

Common error

Be mindful of the context in which you use "Part ways". It can sometimes imply a negative connotation or that one party is at fault. If you want to maintain a neutral tone, consider using alternatives like "separate" or "go separate ways".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Part ways" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of separating or diverging, often after a period of association or agreement. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples show it applies to various relationships and contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Part ways" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of separating or diverging, often after a relationship or agreement has ended. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent use across various contexts. The phrase is versatile and suitable for both formal and informal settings, though care should be taken to avoid implying blame. Alternative phrases such as "go separate ways" or "split up" can be used depending on the desired nuance. With a neutral tone and frequent appearance in news, media, and business contexts, "Part ways" is a reliable choice for expressing separation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Go separate ways

Emphasizes the act of individuals choosing different paths.

Split up

Implies a more definitive and often emotional separation.

Break up

Specifically refers to ending a romantic relationship.

Separate

A more general term for becoming physically divided or distinct.

Disband

Often used for groups or organizations that cease to exist or work together.

Diverge

Suggests a gradual move in different directions, often for paths or ideas.

Come to a parting of the ways

A more formal and often decisive moment of separation.

Terminate relationship

A formal way of ending a personal or professional association.

Dissolve partnership

Specifically refers to ending a business partnership.

Cease collaboration

A formal way to describe the end of a collaborative project.

FAQs

What does "Part ways" mean?

"Part ways" means to separate or go in different directions, often after a relationship, collaboration, or agreement has ended.

What can I say instead of "Part ways"?

You can use alternatives such as "go separate ways", "split up", or "separate" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "Part ways with"?

Yes, you can say "Part ways with" someone or something, indicating that you are ending a relationship or association with them.

What's the difference between "Part ways" and "Break up"?

"Part ways" is a more general term for separating, while "break up" specifically refers to ending a romantic relationship.