damage the relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "damage the relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions or behaviors that negatively affect interpersonal connections. Example: "If we don't communicate openly, we risk damaging the relationship we've built over the years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

It would also damage the relationship between a defendant and his counsel, Moses feared.

The Guardian

The inconsistencies damage the relationship to the client that Plouf! otherwise builds so successfully.

The New York Times

The taxmen refused recent information requests on the subject, claiming disclosures "could potentially damage the relationship of trust between us".

The Guardian - Business

And, American military involvement in Syria, would further damage the relationship between the United States and Russia, Syria's benefactor.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It would damage the relationship with consumers," says Grant, who doesn't use the word readers throughout our interview.

The Guardian

If not, it will be obvious to the other party and can damage the relationship even further.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

"It's not necessary, it's not effective, it doesn't teach the child and all it does is damage the relationships in the long run," she said.

HuffPost

Doing this could damage the relationships your Sims have with each other.

WikiHow

It damages the relationship as well".

Independent

The 2009 elections, marred by violence and fraud, damaged the relationship further.

The Guardian

Bishop denied that her comments had damaged the relationship between the two countries.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing potential consequences, use "damage the relationship" to highlight the risk of harming an established connection. This emphasizes the value of maintaining positive interactions.

Common error

Avoid using "damage the relationship" in situations where the impact is minor or easily resolved. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing seem melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "damage the relationship" functions as a verb phrase with a direct object. The verb "damage" expresses the action of causing harm, and "the relationship" identifies what is being harmed. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "damage the relationship" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to express the negative impact of actions on interpersonal connections. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, highlighting its broad applicability. To avoid overuse or melodrama, consider alternatives such as "harm the connection" or "impair the bond". By prioritizing open communication and mutual respect, you can prevent actions that could "damage the relationship".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

harm the connection

Emphasizes inflicting harm upon a bond or link between individuals.

impair the bond

Focuses on weakening the emotional or social connection.

jeopardize the ties

Highlights the risk of endangering the existing connections.

weaken the rapport

Concentrates on diminishing mutual understanding and harmony.

erode the relationship

Implies a gradual and destructive process affecting the connection.

strain relations

Focuses on creating tension or stress within the relationship.

undermine the alliance

Implies weakening the foundation of a cooperative bond.

disrupt communication

Highlights how the ability to effectively communicate is impacted.

poison the atmosphere

Implies creating a toxic emotional environment.

sour the connection

Focuses on making the relationship unpleasant or disagreeable.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "damage the relationship"?

You can use alternatives like "harm the connection", "impair the bond", or "jeopardize the ties" depending on the context.

What kind of actions "damage the relationship"?

Actions that damage relationships can include dishonesty, lack of communication, betrayal of trust, and consistent negative behavior. The specific impact depends on the nature and strength of the relationship.

Is it always possible to repair a relationship after it's been damaged?

While it's not always guaranteed, relationships can often be repaired with effort from both parties. Repairing a damaged relationship requires open communication, empathy, willingness to forgive, and commitment to positive change.

How to prevent actions that could "damage the relationship"?

To prevent damage, prioritize honesty, open communication, and mutual respect. Practice active listening, address conflicts constructively, and be mindful of the other person's feelings and boundaries. Consistent positive interactions are key.