break ties

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "break ties" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the act of severing a relationship or connection with someone or something. Example: "After years of disagreements, she decided it was time to break ties with her former business partner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The school had a system in place to break ties.

The New Yorker

The new lieutenant governor, Robert Duffy, a Democrat, could break ties on procedural matters like electing officers of the Senate, but he could not break ties on legislation.

The New York Times

One is how to break ties at the end of tournaments.

The New York Times

"Apple is trying to break ties to Google," Mr. Golvin said.

The New York Times

She is pro-Russian, and wants to break ties with the IMF.

The Economist

In a fifty-fifty split, Vice-President Biden would break ties in favor of the Democrats.

The New Yorker

Mr. Karzai must — urgently — break ties with his most unsavory cronies.

The New York Times

The lieutenant governor, a Democrat, could break ties in procedural matters, like electing officers of the Senate, but he could not break ties on legislation, which would mean a power-sharing arrangement would be needed for a productive session.

The New York Times

Meanwhile the government will press the BNP hard to break ties with Jamaat.Sheikh Hasina enjoys a degree of political cover.

The Economist

For example, assume the chair of a voting body, while not having more votes than other members, can break ties.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Nowadays many attempts are made to break ties by using speed games, but that has its troubles, too.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "break ties", ensure the context clearly indicates what type of connection is being severed, such as a personal relationship, a business agreement, or a diplomatic alliance.

Common error

Avoid using "break ties" in contexts where a physical tie is being broken. This phrase is primarily used for metaphorical connections, not literal ones.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "break ties" functions as an idiomatic expression, primarily operating as a verb phrase. It describes the act of severing a relationship or connection, either formally or informally. Examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its usage across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "break ties" is a commonly used and grammatically sound idiomatic phrase signifying the termination of a connection or relationship. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. Its register varies from neutral to formal depending on the context, primarily appearing in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources. Related phrases include "sever relations" and "terminate relationship". When using this phrase, ensure the context makes clear what connection is being ended, and avoid literal interpretations. Be mindful of subtle differences in formality when choosing among related expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sever relations

Emphasizes a complete and formal ending of a relationship, often between countries or organizations.

terminate relationship

A more formal way of saying ending a relationship.

cut off contact

Focuses on ending communication or interaction with someone.

end association

Highlights the termination of a formal or informal partnership.

dissolve partnership

Specifically refers to ending a business or formal agreement.

discontinue affiliation

Highlights ending a connection or association with a group or organization.

repeal alliance

Indicates the end of a cooperative agreement between entities, often nations.

abandon alliance

Signifies leaving an alliance or partnership, often in a critical situation.

nullify agreement

Implies making an agreement invalid or non-binding.

rescind treaty

Refers to the formal cancellation of a treaty or agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "break ties" in a sentence?

You can use "break ties" to describe ending a relationship, agreement, or connection. For example, "The company decided to "break ties" with its supplier due to quality issues."

What's a more formal way to say "break ties"?

Alternatives to "break ties" include "sever relations" or "terminate relationship", which are suitable for formal or professional contexts.

Is it better to say "break ties" or "cut ties"?

"Break ties" and "cut ties" are largely interchangeable. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific tone you want to convey. "Cut ties" might sound slightly more abrupt.

When is it appropriate to use "break ties"?

It's appropriate to use "break ties" when you want to express the ending of a significant relationship or agreement, whether it's personal, professional, or diplomatic.