cut off relations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cut off relations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of severing or ending a relationship, often in a diplomatic or personal context. Example: "After the disagreement, the two countries decided to cut off relations entirely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Iran's American-built aircraft were purchased before Iran's 1979 revolution, when the two countries cut off relations.

The New York Times

Otherwise, said the most prominent of them, Mullah Mohammed Shah Adeli, Afghanistan should cut off relations with the United States.

The New York Times

Mr. Erdogan said as much last week to opposition politicians, who were asking why Turkey did not cut off relations.

The New York Times

"In 2012 and 2013 the whole world cut off relations with us and stopped doing projects with us.

The Guardian

He cut off relations with his eldest daughter in 1999 when her boyfriend, a protégé, joined a splinter party.

The New York Times

After a mob sacked and burned the American Embassy in 1979, the United States cut off relations.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Cut off diplomatic relations with Sweetzie.

The New York Times - Travel

The deal appeared to herald a thawing of relations between Iran and the U.S., which cut off diplomatic relations after the 1979 Islamic revolution.

Los Angeles Times

Israel immediately reiterated a threat made in October to cut off diplomatic relations.

The New York Times

Ted cut off all relations with David in 1989; David shopped Ted to the Feds six years later.

The Guardian

Rwanda cut off diplomatic relations with France in 2006 over the French investigation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cut off relations" when referring to a complete end to a relationship, whether personal or political.

Common error

While "cut off relations" is correct, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Consider alternatives like "stopped talking" or "ended things" for personal relationships to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cut off relations" functions as a verb phrase, specifically used to describe the act of terminating or severing a relationship. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cut off relations" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression for describing the termination of a relationship. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and usable in written English. It is commonly found in news and media contexts, reflecting its use in describing diplomatic and formal severances. While versatile, it is more appropriate for formal settings; alternatives such as "sever ties" or "end association" can provide nuanced meaning. When deploying the phrase, consider the context and desired level of formality to ensure appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sever ties

Emphasizes a formal ending of a connection or agreement.

break off diplomatic relations

Specifically refers to ending diplomatic connections between countries.

terminate contact

Focuses on ending communication or interaction.

disrupt communication

Highlights the act of interrupting or halting communication.

end association

Describes the termination of a partnership or affiliation.

suspend communications

Implies a temporary halt to communications.

rupture connections

Suggests a forceful or dramatic breaking of connections.

cease interaction

Formal way of saying to stop interacting.

halt communication

Emphasizes a sudden stop to communication.

discontinue dealings

Refers to ending business or transactional relationships.

FAQs

How can I use "cut off relations" in a sentence?

You can use "cut off relations" to describe the act of ending a relationship. For example: "After the scandal, the company decided to "cut off relations" with the supplier."

What can I say instead of "cut off relations"?

You can use alternatives like "sever ties", "break off diplomatic relations", or "end association" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "cut off relations" or "cut off ties"?

Both ""cut off relations"" and "cut off ties" are correct, but "cut off relations" is often used in more formal or diplomatic contexts, while "cut off ties" can be used more broadly.

What's the difference between "cut off relations" and "suspend relations"?

"Cut off relations" implies a complete and often permanent ending of a relationship, while "suspend relations" suggests a temporary halt, with the possibility of resuming them in the future.