destroy the relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "destroy the relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions or behaviors that lead to the end or significant damage of a personal or professional relationship. Example: "His constant dishonesty began to destroy the relationship they had built over the years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"This is a disappointing blip, but it's not one that will destroy the relationship forever".

The New York Times

However, our compositional data show that the high salt treatment does not destroy the relationship in the Nomura map, and the relative levels of the primary, secondary and tertiary proteins in these particles are exactly in a descending order (Fig. 1C).

Protein & Cell

As little as one day out of the saddle might destroy the relationship that controllers demand.

Vice

But I was the one who let my insecurities destroy the relationship.

Huffington Post

"It just sows the seeds of resentment that will eventually destroy the relationship.

Huffington Post

It is this buried resentment that will destroy the relationship, not the acknowledgment of our contradictory feelings.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Hypotheticals will get us nowhere, but until we address our inability to open up, we'll continue to die early and needlessly, as well as destroy the relationships we have while we're here.

Vice

The raid destroyed the relationship of the four men.

The New York Times - Books

"It has destroyed the relationship between union and management".

The New York Times

"Long story short," she says, "I embarked on a very long tour and the tour pretty much destroyed the relationship.

The Guardian - Music

Bob: One thing that almost destroyed the relationship was one evening when we had this dinner party.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the potential consequences of actions, use "destroy the relationship" to emphasize the severity and finality of the damage. For less intense situations, consider alternatives like "harm the relationship" or "strain the relationship".

Common error

Avoid using "destroy the relationship" in contexts where the damage is temporary or easily repaired. Using a more nuanced phrase, such as "damage the relationship" or "strain the relationship", may provide a more accurate description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "destroy the relationship" functions as a verb phrase with the verb "destroy" acting upon the noun phrase "the relationship". Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

33%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "destroy the relationship" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the termination or severe damaging of a connection, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is most frequently found in news, media, and wiki contexts, indicating its broad applicability. While direct and impactful, it is important to consider the intensity of the phrase and opt for more nuanced alternatives like "damage the relationship" or "undermine the relationship" when the situation warrants a less severe description. Ludwig AI's analysis emphasizes the phrase's correct usage and the importance of context in choosing the most appropriate wording.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ruin the relationship

Suggests a severe damaging effect, possibly beyond repair, similar in intensity to "destroy".

damage the relationship irreparably

Emphasizes the permanent and irreversible nature of the harm done to the relationship.

break the relationship

Implies a termination of the relationship, though it may not necessarily involve prior conflict or damage.

end the relationship

A more neutral phrase that indicates the conclusion of a relationship, without necessarily implying fault or damage.

sever the ties

Suggests a deliberate and forceful cutting off of connections.

sabotage the relationship

Highlights intentional actions that undermine and ultimately ruin the relationship.

undermine the relationship

Indicates a gradual weakening of the relationship, leading to its eventual failure.

jeopardize the relationship

Suggests that the relationship is at risk of being damaged or terminated.

sour the relationship

Implies a negative change in the quality of the relationship, making it unpleasant or strained.

poison the relationship

Highlights a destructive influence that contaminates the relationship and leads to its downfall.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "destroy the relationship"?

You can use alternatives like "ruin the relationship", "damage the relationship", or "end the relationship" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "destroy the relationship"?

Use "destroy the relationship" when referring to actions or events that cause irreparable harm or the complete termination of a bond between people or entities. It implies a significant and often intentional negative impact.

Is "destroy the relationship" too strong of a phrase in some situations?

Yes, it can be. If the relationship is only temporarily strained or has the potential for repair, consider using milder terms like "jeopardize the relationship" or "undermine the relationship".

What are some common causes that "destroy the relationship"?

Common causes include betrayal, consistent dishonesty, irreconcilable differences, and severe breaches of trust. These actions typically create a lasting negative impact that cannot be easily resolved.