a parting of ways

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a parting of ways" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where two people or groups decide to go in different directions or separate from each other, often after a relationship or collaboration. Example: "After years of working together, the two companies reached a parting of ways due to differing visions for the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Then there were feuds between the original developers and a parting of ways -- including a dispute over how to part ways (specifically, in which rabbinical court).

The New York Times

China doesn't go for underdogs, so expect a parting of ways as Assad reaches his seemingly inevitable end, much as China did in the case of Libya.

The New Yorker

No domino Estonia's taxing dilemma Russian roulette A parting of ways B negative Policy failures ReprintsMost seriously, political support for the flat tax has been waning.

The Economist

Mr. Sarig said he and the Shortlist's other founder, Greg Spotts, had a parting of ways that arose from being "people at different places in their lives".

The New York Times

Mr. Mori's willingness to use debt led to a parting of ways with his younger brother, Akira, who started his own real estate company, Mori Trust.

The New York Times

But despite an FA Cup Final appearance some fans had grown tired of what they considered a dated style of football and a parting of ways occurred once the season had ended.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

"When we sat down to discuss the matter with Paul, it became clear that we were in agreement that a parting of the ways would be the best way forwards for all parties.

BBC

"It was a matter of principle for us and integrity, and that's the way we like to do things, so there was a parting of the ways".

BBC

Modern football, however, does not work that way - and of course clubs are just as willing as players to manoeuvre a parting of the ways when it suits them.

BBC

Now, however, there was a parting of the ways.

The New Yorker

There's a parting of the ways occurring in publishing.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a parting of ways", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is separating. Provide context regarding the reasons or circumstances leading to the separation.

Common error

Avoid using "a parting of ways" for minor disagreements or temporary separations. This phrase carries a sense of finality and significance, so reserve it for situations where a substantial relationship or collaboration has ended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a parting of ways" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. According to Ludwig AI, it is used to describe a situation where entities separate or diverge. It signifies a termination of a relationship, agreement, or collaboration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a parting of ways" is an idiomatic phrase used to describe a formal separation or divergence, often between entities that were previously aligned. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. It indicates a significant decision to go separate directions and is best used in situations where a substantial relationship or collaboration has ended. While it is suitable for formal contexts, its use in informal settings requires careful consideration. To ensure clarity, always provide context regarding the reasons or circumstances leading to the separation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to go their separate ways

Expresses the act of individuals choosing different paths.

to part company

Indicates a formal or business-related separation.

a divergence of paths

Emphasizes different directions or goals.

a split

Focuses on the act of dividing or separating.

a falling out

Suggests a disagreement or quarrel leading to separation.

a separation

Highlights the state of being apart or divided.

a rift

Implies a more significant division or estrangement.

a break-up

Specifically refers to the end of a relationship.

a breach

Emphasizes a broken agreement or understanding.

a schism

Denotes a formal division or split, often within a group or organization.

FAQs

How can I use "a parting of ways" in a sentence?

You can use "a parting of ways" to describe a separation or divergence, as in "After years of collaboration, the partners reached "a parting of ways" due to conflicting visions."

What are some alternatives to "a parting of ways"?

Alternatives include "a split", "a divergence of paths", or "to go their separate ways", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a parting of ways" in informal settings?

While generally suitable for formal contexts, using "a parting of ways" in informal settings can add emphasis to a separation. However, consider whether a simpler term like "separation" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "a parting of ways" and "a disagreement"?

"A disagreement" refers to a difference of opinion, while ""a parting of ways"" implies a more significant separation or end of a relationship or collaboration as a result of irreconcilable differences or changing paths.