a bad relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bad relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a negative or unhealthy connection between individuals, often in the context of personal or romantic relationships. Example: "After years of arguing and misunderstandings, they finally realized they were in a bad relationship and needed to part ways."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's like a bad relationship.

Independent

It's a bad relationship.

The Guardian - Music

"We just have a bad relationship with this administration".

The New York Times

Still, President Putin has no interest in a bad relationship.

The New York Times

And I've never really had a bad relationship.

The Guardian - Books

Maybe, like a bad relationship, this just isn't working.

The Guardian

That may mean that a bad relationship is still bad after cancer.

The New York Times

That makes a bad relationship worse, because hardliners on both sides play on mutual distrust.

The Economist

I was a 24-year-old law student in a bad relationship.

The New York Times

In the end, acupuncture, physical therapy and leaving a bad relationship solved the problem.

The New York Times

"I do not think they have a bad relationship," Thorn said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about relationships, be specific about the issues. Instead of just saying "a bad relationship", describe what makes it bad (e.g., lack of communication, trust issues).

Common error

Avoid using "a bad relationship" as a vague descriptor. Instead, elaborate on the specific problems or dynamics within the relationship to provide a clearer picture for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bad relationship" functions as a noun phrase, serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It generally refers to a connection between people marked by negative qualities. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bad relationship" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase for describing a negative interpersonal connection. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, and the examples demonstrate its wide application across news, general discussions, and academic contexts. For clarity in writing, it's advisable to provide specific details about what makes the relationship 'bad' rather than relying solely on this general term. Consider alternatives such as "toxic relationship" or "unhealthy relationship" for greater impact or precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a toxic relationship

This alternative highlights the damaging and harmful nature of the relationship.

an unhealthy relationship

This phrase emphasizes the detrimental impact on well-being.

a dysfunctional relationship

This term focuses on the impaired or abnormal functioning within the relationship.

a troubled relationship

This suggests that the relationship is experiencing difficulties or problems.

a strained relationship

This indicates tension and difficulty in maintaining a positive connection.

a difficult relationship

This points to the challenges and hardships involved in the relationship.

a loveless relationship

This describes a relationship lacking affection and emotional connection.

an abusive relationship

This specifies that the relationship involves abuse, whether physical, emotional, or psychological.

a failing relationship

This indicates that the relationship is declining and likely to end.

a destructive relationship

This highlights the damaging consequences of the relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "a bad relationship" in a sentence?

You can use "a bad relationship" to describe a connection characterized by negativity, conflict, or harm. For example, "Leaving "a bad relationship" was the best decision I ever made."

What are some alternatives to "a bad relationship"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "toxic relationship", "unhealthy relationship", or "dysfunctional relationship" to convey a similar meaning.

What makes a relationship qualify as "a bad relationship"?

A relationship might be considered ""a bad relationship"" if it involves constant conflict, lack of respect, abuse, or a general sense of unhappiness and dissatisfaction for one or both partners.

Is it better to be single than in "a bad relationship"?

Many people believe that being single is preferable to being in ""a bad relationship"" because it allows you to focus on your own well-being and avoid the negative impacts of an unhealthy partnership.