dysfunctional relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dysfunctional relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship that is unhealthy or not functioning properly, often characterized by conflict, lack of communication, or emotional distress. Example: "After years of arguing and misunderstandings, they finally realized they were in a dysfunctional relationship and needed to seek help."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is where the dysfunctional relationship with Africa begins.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is a precedent-setting, tone-setting action which reveals Britain's disastrously dysfunctional relationship with predators.

The Guardian - Opinion

The District's dysfunctional relationship with its federal overseers reaches beyond budgets.

The Washington Post

Here, the dysfunctional relationship between America's energy market and our foreign policy interests is laid bare.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's a dysfunctional relationship neither party can quite bring itself to sever.

The New York Times

Tillerson, a former oil-industry executive, detailed his dysfunctional relationship with the President on foreign policy.

The New Yorker

"The contrast with the dysfunctional relationship of Blair and Brown is quite startling," Wishart told me.

The Guardian

Burk III could question the dysfunctional relationship between education and big-time college football.

The New York Times - Sports

"We've always known we have a dysfunctional relationship with the West," Mr. Sharma said.

The New York Times

One of the most endangered things in our dysfunctional relationship with the Earth is hope.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The negotiations often seemed ill-starred, centred on a dysfunctional relationship between the US and Iran.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when using "dysfunctional relationship". While it can apply to personal relationships, it can also describe relationships between entities like businesses, governments, or even abstract concepts.

Common error

Avoid labeling every challenging relationship as "dysfunctional". Misusing the term can dilute its impact. Reserve it for relationships with deeply ingrained, problematic patterns.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dysfunctional relationship" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "dysfunctional" modifies the noun "relationship". Ludwig AI confirms its wide use to describe unhealthy connections. It often serves as the subject or object of a sentence, characterizing the nature of the bond between people or entities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Lifestyle

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "dysfunctional relationship" is widely used to describe connections characterized by unhealthy patterns, poor communication, and conflict. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Academia. When using the term, it's important to be specific about the problematic behaviors and contexts involved, avoiding overuse. Alternative phrases such as "poor relationship" or "strained relationship" can be used depending on the context. Recognizing the signs of a "dysfunctional relationship" is the first step towards seeking help and fostering healthier interactions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dysfunctional partnership

Specifically refers to a problematic relationship within a partnership context, such as business or marriage.

impaired relationship

Indicates that the relationship is damaged or weakened in some way.

dysfunctional connection

Highlights the impaired or unhealthy link between individuals.

flawed relationship

Highlights imperfections and weaknesses within the relationship structure.

poor relationship

A general term indicating a low quality or problematic relationship.

bad relationship

A broad term indicating a relationship that is harmful or negative.

unworkable relationship

Emphasizes the impracticality or impossibility of the relationship continuing successfully.

unsatisfactory relationship

Focuses on the lack of fulfillment or contentment within the relationship.

strained relationship

Suggests the relationship is under pressure or tension.

wrong relationship

Suggests the relationship is inappropriate or unsuitable for those involved.

FAQs

What are some signs of a "dysfunctional relationship"?

Signs include constant conflict, poor communication, lack of trust, emotional abuse, and a general feeling of unhappiness or unease. These patterns are often persistent and difficult to change without intervention.

What can I say instead of "dysfunctional relationship"?

You can use alternatives like "unsatisfactory relationship", "poor relationship", or "strained relationship" depending on the specific context.

Is a "dysfunctional relationship" always abusive?

Not necessarily. While abusive relationships are always dysfunctional, a "dysfunctional relationship" may involve unhealthy patterns without rising to the level of abuse. However, all dysfunctional relationships are inherently harmful.

How can a "dysfunctional relationship" be improved?

Improving a "dysfunctional relationship" often requires professional help, such as couples therapy or individual counseling. Both parties need to be willing to acknowledge the issues, take responsibility for their actions, and learn healthier communication and conflict-resolution skills.