deteriorating relations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deteriorating relations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decline in the quality or state of relationships, often in a political or social context. Example: "The ongoing conflict has led to deteriorating relations between the two countries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Deteriorating relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan only make this problem more difficult.

The Washington Post

But rapidly deteriorating relations with Ankara have prompted Washington to reappraise ties.

The Guardian

It was the main source of deteriorating relations between Moscow and Washington during the Bush years.

The Guardian

Riyadh's deteriorating relations with Tehran have also made achieving broad diplomatic consensus even more difficult.

The Guardian

But there is more at work, too -- United's deteriorating relations with its employees, for example.

The New York Times

Add a fourth "win" in Shimon Perez's thanking Turkey for its "assistance" at a time of deteriorating relations.

The New York Times

The killings on Saturday are only the latest chapter in the deteriorating relations between the Afghans and NATO.

The New York Times

Deteriorating relations between Mr Beck and Fox have, however, been the stuff of industry gossip for months.

Independent

But Ms. Tanaka's troubles are also a result of her deteriorating relations with the ministry's entrenched bureaucrats.

The New York Times

The threats fail to recognize Saudi Arabia's own responsibility for deteriorating relations, and we hope they prove to be overblown.

The New York Times

Analysts are divided on what the deteriorating relations between the Kachin and central government mean for the country's overall moves toward democracy and economic liberalization.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing international affairs or political scenarios, use "deteriorating relations" to accurately depict a decline in diplomatic ties. For instance, "The sanctions led to "deteriorating relations" between the two nations".

Common error

While "deteriorating relations" is widely applicable, avoid using it in extremely casual conversations. In personal contexts, consider alternatives like "strained relationship" or "growing distance" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deteriorating relations" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the declining state of relationships between entities, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Encyclopedias

18%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deteriorating relations" is a grammatically sound noun phrase commonly used to describe a decline in relationships. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability, particularly in news, encyclopedic, and academic contexts. While interchangeable alternatives like "strained relations" or "worsening ties" exist, this phrase effectively conveys a sense of progressive decline. When writing, consider the level of formality and avoid overuse in casual settings. Pay attention to usage and aim for a neutral tone to maintain objectivity when describing a negative trend.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worsening ties

A direct synonym, simply emphasizing the act of becoming worse.

breaking down of relations

Emphasizes the process and the finality of the disruption in the relationship.

damaged relationship

This indicates that some harm has been done to the relationship, but it might still be salvageable.

strained relations

This alternative implies tension and difficulty in the relationship, often suggesting a more acute or immediate problem than a gradual decline.

sour relations

Suggests the relationship has become unpleasant or disagreeable.

waning relationships

This suggests a gradual fading or weakening of the relationship, often due to neglect or lack of effort.

frosty relationship

Implies a cold, unfriendly, and often formal relationship.

declining rapport

This emphasizes the loss of mutual understanding and harmony between parties.

ruptured ties

This implies a more severe and definitive break in the relationship, suggesting a complete severing of connections.

collapsing alliances

This phrase specifically refers to the breakdown of formal agreements or partnerships, often in a political or strategic context.

FAQs

How to use "deteriorating relations" in a sentence?

You can use "deteriorating relations" to describe the declining state of affairs between two or more entities. For example, "The trade war led to "deteriorating relations" between the countries involved.".

What can I say instead of "deteriorating relations"?

You can use alternatives like "strained relations", "worsening ties", or "declining rapport depending on the context.

Which is correct, "deteriorating relations" or "deteriorated relations"?

"Deteriorating relations" describes an ongoing process of decline. "Deteriorated relations" suggests the decline is complete. The choice depends on whether the relationship is still declining or has already reached a low point.

What's the difference between "deteriorating relations" and "strained relations"?

"Strained relations" implies tension and difficulty, while "deteriorating relations" indicates a progressive decline in the quality of the relationship. "Strained relations" might be a precursor to "deteriorating relations".