drew apart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "drew apart" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means to separate or move away from each other. It is often used to describe a physical distance between two people or objects, but it can also be used to describe an emotional distance or rift between people. Example: After months of fighting, the couple finally drew apart and decided to end their relationship. In this example, "drew apart" is used to describe how the couple physically separated and also how their relationship became distant and disconnected.

✓ Grammatically correct

Relationships

Physical separation

Abstract separation

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The two men gradually drew apart.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They drew apart; they couldn't speak to one another anymore.

The New Yorker

They didn't fit well, walking so close — she swung her butt, and their hips collided — and eventually they drew apart and held hands.

The New Yorker

The regular attenders included two of my closest playmates, Patsy and Neal, and when we drew apart, the reason wasn't chapel, but Scotland's state educational system.

The Guardian - Opinion

Gradually, however, as other letters reveal, he drew apart from her during their marriage, and he detested her after their break-up, with a ferocity as obvious in the correspondence as in the (related) misogyny of the later fiction.

The Guardian - Books

In Feb., with the Socialist victory in the election, the tension relaxed, but Castillo, like Spain, was split down the middle, and the two sides drew apart, on guard.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

There was also a tendency of the two wheels to draw apart.

Cornell University

A couple's lips brush slowly for a kiss, then draw apart.

The New York Times - Arts

Meanwhile, the vacuum evaporation process is also highly energy consumptive and draws apart from its promising inexpensive techniques1.

Nature

Venus and Jupiter still dominate our predawn sky, though they are drawing apart after their spectacular conjunction a week ago.

The Guardian

Convergence and divergence, in meteorology, the accumulation or drawing apart of air, as well as the rate at which each takes place.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "drew apart" to describe a gradual distancing, whether physical or emotional. It is particularly effective when highlighting a subtle shift in a relationship or situation.

Common error

Avoid using "drew apart" when describing an abrupt or immediate separation. Phrases like "split up" or "broke apart" are more suitable for sudden events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drew apart" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a phrasal verb, indicating a process of separation or distancing. It often describes the action of two or more entities moving away from each other, either physically or emotionally, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "drew apart" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe a gradual separation, whether physical or emotional. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts. While not extremely common, its usage in news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing highlights its broad applicability. It is important to consider the subtle difference between "drew apart" and similar phrases like "split up", which implies a more sudden separation. Use "drew apart" to depict a gradual distancing, emphasizing the subtle shift in the relationship or situation. Alternatives like "drifted away", "separated", or "distanced themselves" may be used based on the specific shade of meaning you intend to communicate. In conclusion, "drew apart" is an apt choice for illustrating a subtle shift from togetherness to separation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drifted away

Implies a gradual and subtle separation over time, often in relationships.

separated

A general term for becoming distinct or moving physically apart.

distanced themselves

Suggests a deliberate action to create emotional or social distance.

diverged

Implies a branching out or moving in different directions, often used for opinions or paths.

became estranged

Indicates a loss of affection or familiarity, often in family relationships.

grew distant

Highlights the gradual increase in emotional or physical distance.

lost touch

Emphasizes the cessation of communication and connection.

parted ways

A more formal way of saying that people have separated, especially after a journey or collaboration.

became divided

Indicates a split or separation due to disagreement or conflict.

moved away from each other

Directly describes the act of physically or emotionally moving away.

FAQs

How can I use "drew apart" in a sentence?

You can use "drew apart" to describe a gradual separation, such as: "After the argument, they "drew apart" and rarely spoke."

What's the difference between "drew apart" and "split up"?

"Drew apart" implies a gradual distancing, while "split up" suggests a more immediate and decisive separation. "They "drew apart" over time" versus "They "split up" after the fight."

What are some synonyms for "drew apart"?

Alternatives include "drifted away", "separated", or "distanced themselves", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "drew apart"?

Yes, "drew apart" is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe a separation or distancing.