Sever the relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Sever the relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of ending or cutting off a connection or association with someone or something. Example: "After much consideration, I have decided to sever the relationship with my business partner due to irreconcilable differences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Finally, when you're at a true impasse with a colleague or friend but don't want to sever the relationship, you have several options including sharing your anger or disbelief at what they've done, and/or expressing your commitment to keeping the relationship in tact but asking for a way to bridge your differences.

Forbes

"People have so many online strings that bind them that cutting one does not sever the relationship.

The New York Times

Mr. Rollins, who managed President Ronald Reagan's 1984 re-election campaign, said that the decision to sever the relationship was "mutual" and that he was not dismissed.

The New York Times

Explaining her reasoning about whether to sever the relationship, she wrote, "In the end in this business, it's all a matter of who needs who the most".

The New York Times - Magazine

It states that a team should hire Showalter now, then quickly sever the relationship because the team would be guaranteed to reach the World Series a year later.

The New York Times - Sports

"As Art Radio is a spinoff of P.S. 1 and MoMA, they are trying to sever the relationship they had with the Clocktower space," Ms. Heiss said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Mark Lawson The proliferation of digital channels has severed the relationship of responsibility between channel and viewer.

The Guardian

This is true even when the physician has excellent reasons for severing the relationship and finds the patient another doctor.

The New York Times - Health

Severing the relationship between the intelligence agency and the cyber fighting force is the more challenging and controversial task.

The Washington Post

It is not the singular event -- the unceremonious court order -- that severs the relationship; rather, it is the horror of the prelude and the pain of the aftermath.

The New York Times - Magazine

Jones reacted with ignorance regarding Francis's past, but she severed the relationship when she was schooled on history -- and the value of her Nike image.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sever the relationship" when a formal or definitive end to a connection is intended. This phrase is suitable for professional, legal, or serious personal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "sever the relationship" in casual conversations or less formal writing, as it can sound overly dramatic or stiff. Consider using a more relaxed phrase like "cut ties" or "end things" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sever the relationship" functions as a verb phrase, where "sever" acts as a transitive verb requiring an object (the relationship). Ludwig's AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sever the relationship" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, as confirmed by Ludwig, which indicates a formal and decisive end to a connection. While categorized as having a neutral to formal tone, its suitability depends heavily on context. Predominantly found in news and academic writing, it may sound overly dramatic in casual conversation. Consider alternatives like "cut ties" or "end things" for less formal settings. Understanding the nuances of this phrase and its alternatives will enhance clarity and appropriateness in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Cut ties

A more casual and common way to express ending a relationship.

Terminate the connection

Uses a more formal term for ending a bond.

End association

Suitable for formally discontinuing a professional link.

Break off relations

Implies a diplomatic or formal parting.

Cancel affiliation

Formal way to express ending an official connection.

Discontinue contact

Focuses on ceasing communication.

Cease communication

Emphasizes stopping all forms of correspondence.

Dissolve the partnership

Specifically refers to ending a collaborative business agreement.

Renounce connection

Suggests a public and formal disavowal of a relationship.

Put an end to the bond

Emphasizes the emotional and social aspect of the relationship.

FAQs

What does it mean to "sever the relationship"?

To "sever the relationship" means to completely end a connection or association with someone or something. It implies a formal and decisive termination.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "sever the relationship"?

The phrase "sever the relationship" is appropriate in formal contexts, such as business agreements, legal documents, or serious personal matters where a definitive end is desired. In casual settings, alternatives like "cut ties" might be more suitable.

What are some alternatives to "sever the relationship"?

Some alternatives to "sever the relationship" include "end the relationship", "cut ties", "break off relations", or "terminate the connection". The best choice depends on the context and the desired level of formality.

Is "sever the relationship" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "sever the relationship" can sound overly formal in everyday conversation. Simpler alternatives like "end things" or "part ways" are usually more appropriate.