a bitter relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bitter relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship characterized by resentment, hostility, or deep-seated anger between individuals. Example: "After years of misunderstandings and arguments, they found themselves in a bitter relationship that seemed impossible to mend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Reeves shoved the rookie Elway on the field too soon, retarding his progress and creating a bitter relationship between them that lasts to this day.

The New York Times - Sports

But you missed out on a title and left the organization you loved because of a bitter relationship with the owner and a superior offer from another team.

The New York Times - Sports

Jon Pareles of The Times described her 1995 hit album "Jagged Little Pill" (which received six Grammy nominations and sold 5 million copies) as "emotional purging prompted by a bitter relationship".

The New York Times

United pilots are likely to give extra scrutiny to the deal because the US Airways chief executive is Stephen M. Wolf, who was United's chief executive in the early 1990's and had a bitter relationship with the pilots.

The New York Times

Following on the heels of a bitter relationship between the teachers' union and Mr. Klein, Mr. Walcott is on the phone with Michael Mulgrew, the president of the union, "a minimum of once a day," Mr. Mulgrew said, adding that the chancellor "was instrumental" in cementing the budget deal.

The New York Times

Turner said he will leave AOL next month when his contract expires, ending a bitter relationship with the firm to which he sold his Turner Broadcasting System in 1995.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Swan's personal choices, which have left him estranged from his daughter and created a complex, bitter relationship with her mother, are also symptomatic of his relationship with the broader Aboriginal community.

The Guardian - Film

Describing a "broken, bitter relationship between the community and Labour" which he felt had "plummeted further" since Jeremy Corbyn became its leader, he thought the Tory candidate "could be expected to seize on this and, coupled with his pro-Israel stance and Jewish background, secure the backing of Jewish voters".

The Guardian

In the end, the popular Lygo could not convince the appointment panel that he stood for change after six years and an often bitter relationship with his former boss.

The Guardian

Mr. Morgenthau, the 90-year-old departing district attorney, and Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, the 67-year-old billionaire who was just re-elected to his third term, have long shared an uneasy, sometimes bitter relationship.

The New York Times

The two had an occasionally mistrustful and bitter relationship last year and their team are again expected to be clear of the rest of the field in 2015.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interpersonal conflicts, use "a bitter relationship" to convey a sense of deep-seated animosity and resentment between individuals or groups.

Common error

Avoid using "a bitter relationship" to describe minor disagreements or temporary spats. Reserve it for situations involving sustained hostility and significant emotional investment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bitter relationship" functions as a noun phrase, describing the nature of a connection between two or more parties. Ludwig AI affirms its correct and usable status in English, highlighting its descriptive capability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bitter relationship" is a noun phrase used to describe relationships marked by animosity and resentment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, while analysis of the examples reveals its common usage in news, media, and scientific contexts. The phrase is versatile, suitable for various registers, and is best used when describing conflicts characterized by sustained hostility. Alternatives such as "a strained relationship" or "a hostile connection" may be considered depending on the specific context. Understanding these nuances helps in effectively conveying the intended meaning and impact in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a contentious relationship

Emphasizes the likelihood of disputes and arguments within the relationship.

a strained partnership

Focuses on the tension and difficulty within the relationship, highlighting the lack of ease and harmony.

a resentful bond

Emphasizes the underlying feeling of bitterness and ill will connecting the individuals.

an acrimonious association

Emphasizes the bitterness and resentment present in the association, suggesting a higher level of animosity.

a hostile connection

Highlights the antagonistic nature of the relationship, indicating open conflict and aggression.

a difficult liaison

Focuses on the challenges and hardships involved in maintaining the relationship.

a fractious dynamic

Focuses on the tendency for the relationship to be easily disrupted and contentious.

a discordant alliance

Highlights the lack of harmony and agreement within the alliance, suggesting conflict and friction.

a troubled affair

Suggests that the relationship is burdened by problems and difficulties, potentially causing distress.

an antagonistic interaction

Highlights the confrontational nature of the interactions, emphasizing opposition and conflict.

FAQs

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

You can use "a bitter relationship" to describe situations where there is deep animosity and resentment between people. For example, "Their business partnership devolved into "a bitter relationship" after years of disagreement."

What are some alternatives to "a bitter relationship"?

Some alternatives to "a bitter relationship" include "a strained relationship", "a hostile relationship", or "an acrimonious association" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a bitter relationship" in formal writing?

Yes, "a bitter relationship" is suitable for formal writing as it clearly conveys the intensity of negativity in the relationship. However, consider the specific tone required and whether a more nuanced phrase might be more appropriate.

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

A relationship qualifies as "a bitter relationship" when it is characterized by persistent animosity, resentment, and often open conflict. It implies deep-seated negative feelings that significantly impact the interaction between the parties involved.