bitter split

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bitter split" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a division or disagreement that is characterized by strong negative emotions, often in personal or political contexts. Example: "The bitter split between the two factions left the community divided and struggling to find common ground."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The Security Council's bitter split transfixes a wincing world.

The New York Times

"It's a bitter split," said Mr. Williams of Airbus.

The New York Times

Immigration also quickened the bitter split in the American labor movement.

The New York Times

Despite a bitter split in 2004, he expressed warm feelings for Mr. Weiss.

The New York Times

Montgomery and Jones soon left Graham; and Graham and Conte had a bitter split.

The New York Times - Sports

Palestinians have not held an election in five years because of a bitter split between the groups.

The New York Times

His parents' rocky marriage ended in a bitter split in the 1960s when Wright was a child.

The Guardian

He spoke too late for Russia's Roman Catholic minority, long embroiled in a bitter split with the Orthodox Church.

The New York Times

But it was Mr. Lee's responsibility for the bitter split among the Nationalists that was the main complaint today.

The New York Times

So Adams, while still talking tough, pursued negotiations with France and caused a bitter split in Federalist ranks.

The New York Times - Magazine

(This had caused a bitter split in the Argentinian Jesuits when he was their leader, but that is a different part of the story).

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bitter split" when describing situations marked by significant animosity and long-lasting negative consequences. It's effective for conveying the depth and intensity of the disagreement or separation.

Common error

Avoid using "bitter split" for minor disagreements or temporary rifts. The phrase is best reserved for situations with deep-seated animosity and significant repercussions. Using it lightly can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bitter split" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "bitter" modifies the noun "split". It is often used to describe a situation or event characterized by strong negative emotions and division, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

4%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bitter split" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a division marked by significant animosity. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is frequently used in News & Media to depict contentious situations and is suitable for neutral to formal contexts. While versatile, it’s best reserved for describing serious disagreements, avoiding overuse in minor situations. Alternatives such as "acrimonious separation" or "rancorous division" offer similar meanings with slight differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acrimonious separation

Emphasizes the hostile nature of the separation.

rancorous division

Highlights the deep-seated resentment involved.

hostile parting

Focuses on the antagonistic manner of the departure.

contentious disagreement

Underscores the argument and conflict.

violent rupture

Suggests a sudden and forceful break.

deep fissure

Implies a significant and damaging division.

fractious parting

Highlights the irritable and quarrelsome nature of the split.

severe rift

Emphasizes the seriousness and extent of the break.

heated schism

Focuses on the passionate and intense nature of the division.

discordant separation

Stresses the lack of harmony and agreement.

FAQs

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

You can use "bitter split" to describe a relationship, political alliance, or organization that has experienced a severe and acrimonious division. For example, "The company experienced a bitter split after the CEO's controversial decision."

What can I say instead of "bitter split"?

You can use alternatives like "acrimonious separation", "rancorous division", or "hostile parting" depending on the context.

Is "bitter split" formal or informal?

"Bitter split" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it is often found in news and media reporting on contentious situations.

What makes a "bitter split" different from a regular disagreement?

A "bitter split" implies a deep-seated animosity and often irreversible break, unlike a regular disagreement which may be resolved. The term emphasizes the intensity of negative emotions and the long-term consequences of the separation.