deteriorating relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deteriorating relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship that is worsening over time, whether it be personal, professional, or otherwise. Example: "The constant arguments and lack of communication have led to a deteriorating relationship between the two colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"It was a deteriorating relationship.

The New Yorker

Here, it comes as the poignant coda to a deteriorating relationship.

The Guardian

His relative ineffectiveness in the playoffs further damaged a deteriorating relationship with the team.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's very raw," Webber said of his deteriorating relationship with his teammate.

The New York Times

The deteriorating relationship may not much trouble Americans, but it spells problems for Canada.

The Economist

Even as he was working to repair a deteriorating relationship, though, the meteor strikes hit.

The New York Times

Other police officials said race was also a factor in the deteriorating relationship between Ms. Leung and her parents.

The New York Times

Two developments are hastening the crisis: the deteriorating relationship between India and Pakistan, and Pakistan's accelerating disintegration.

The New York Times

The killings in Panjwai on Sunday have left both sides grasping for a way to stabilize the deteriorating relationship.

The New York Times

"Blue Tip" decries media brainwashing; "Drag On Forever" portrays a deteriorating relationship; "Free" contemplates decline and obsolescence.

The New York Times - Arts

Her parents had a deteriorating relationship during her teenage years and her father left home when she was 18: she never saw him again.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "deteriorating relationship" to clearly convey that a relationship is worsening over time. Provide context to explain the causes and effects of the deterioration for better understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "deteriorating relationship" without providing specific examples or reasons for the decline. Vague statements can weaken your argument and leave the reader confused.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deteriorating relationship" functions as a noun phrase, where "deteriorating" acts as a modifying adjective describing the state of the relationship. Ludwig examples show it used in various contexts to describe a worsening condition between individuals, groups, or entities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "deteriorating relationship" effectively describes a relationship that is worsening over time. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While "worsening relationship" or "failing relationship" offer similar meanings, "deteriorating relationship" provides a nuanced way to express concern or analyze the decline in a connection's quality or stability. It's essential to provide context and specific examples when using this phrase to ensure clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

declining relationship

Similar to deteriorating, but with a focus on the downward trend.

worsening relationship

Directly indicates that the relationship is getting worse.

strained relationship

Focuses on the tension and difficulty within the relationship.

failing relationship

Highlights the unsuccessful nature and potential end of the relationship.

troubled relationship

Emphasizes the presence of problems and difficulties.

collapsing relationship

Suggests an imminent or rapid breakdown.

fracturing relationship

Implies that the relationship is breaking into pieces.

disintegrating relationship

Emphasizes a complete loss of cohesion and unity.

unraveling relationship

Suggests the relationship is coming apart thread by thread.

relationship on the rocks

An idiomatic expression indicating severe problems threatening the relationship.

FAQs

How can I describe a "deteriorating relationship" in simpler terms?

You could use phrases like "worsening relationship", "failing relationship", or "declining relationship" as simpler alternatives.

What are some signs of a "deteriorating relationship"?

Signs can include increased arguments, decreased communication, loss of trust, and growing resentment.

How does a "deteriorating relationship" differ from a 'difficult relationship'?

A difficult relationship may always have challenges, while a "deteriorating relationship" implies a decline from a previously better state.

What steps can be taken to improve a "deteriorating relationship"?

Open communication, seeking professional help, and addressing underlying issues are potential steps to improve a "deteriorating relationship".