estrangement

USAGE SUMMARY

"estrangement" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is typically used to mean the state of being something apart, isolated, or alienated from others. For example, "After a bitter argument, John and Mary experienced a period of estrangement as they no longer had any contact with each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

George's parents never actually spell out that they think he's gay (it's even hinted at one point they think he's got HIV) but the old cliches/truths of self-loathing, estrangement and awkward acceptance are lovingly played out within their cosy suburbia.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The estrangement, as Strauss called it, seems irreparable – however many runs Pietersen scores.

The Guardian - Sport

The film does not show Jane and Stephen's decade-long estrangement, preferring to skip to their more recent reconciliation.

The Guardian - Film

This affair matters most because it makes clear the estrangement of professional politicians from their wider parties.

The Guardian - Opinion

Higgins, a poet and writer who served as minister for arts in the Labour-Fine Gael coalition in 1994-97, quoted poets and key figures in Anglo-Irish history in his earlier speech to parliament as he hailed the normalisation in relations between London and Dublin, which has progressed from the "doubting eyes of estrangement to the trusting eyes of partnership".

The Guardian

4. Junk by Melvin Burgess A quick list of the issues the teenage characters experience in Junk and it's not too difficult to see why controversy still surrounds today: teenage pregnancy, heroin addiction, estrangement, prostitution and incarceration to name but a few.

The Guardian

As if to make up for decades of electoral estrangement from all but the cosiest parts of Coutts and Cartier country Cheshire, the Tories (with the help of Nick Clegg) have announced a series of initiatives to boost the supposedly humdrum economies of our great northern cities.

The Guardian

It is just every parent's nightmare.' Speaking on condition that their first names were not used, the dead woman's father detailed their fruitless attempts to get her off drugs and increasing estrangement from their troubled daughter.

The Guardian

The film essentially tells us how their marriage suffers until she, in a magisterial, bark-stripping tirade, finally reminds him of her indispensable role in his success: "I was once your boss!" The device that speeds along the estrangement of the partnership is the movie's weakest invention, a screenwriting project with another writer (Danny Huston), a fool and a hack in Hitch's eyes.

The Guardian - Film

THE smiles were forced, but the message was clear: after a period of growing estrangement, Russia and Belarus have kissed and made up.

The Economist

Nor does the princess's estrangement from Prince Charles and his family alter the fact that he and his heir, Prince William, will continue in future to have that strength on their side.For all that, the royal family will always have an awkward relationship with the media.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "estrangement" to describe a state of emotional or relational distance that has developed over time, often due to specific circumstances or events.

Common error

Avoid using "estrangement" to describe minor or fleeting disagreements. The term implies a more profound and lasting separation than a simple argument.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "estrangement" is as a noun. It typically refers to a state or condition, specifically the state of being alienated, separated, or emotionally distant from someone or something. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is a correct and usable term in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

48%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "estrangement" is a noun signifying a state of emotional or relational distance, often resulting from specific events or circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It's frequently found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science contexts, denoting a breakdown of connections. While it's grammatically sound and commonly used, it's important to distinguish it from temporary disagreements, as "estrangement" suggests a more lasting separation. Related terms include "alienation" and ""separation"", each carrying nuanced differences. Use "estrangement" to accurately and effectively convey a sense of lasting emotional or relational distance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

estrangement from

Emphasizes separation from a specific entity.

alienation

Focuses on the feeling of being isolated or detached from others or from society.

alienation from

Focuses on the feeling of being isolated or detached from a specific person or a thing.

separation

Emphasizes the physical or emotional distancing between individuals or groups.

disaffection

Highlights a loss of fondness, loyalty, or enthusiasm, leading to a rift.

rift

Implies a significant break in a relationship, often due to disagreement or conflict.

discord

Stresses a lack of harmony or agreement, causing tension and division.

breach

Suggests a violation of trust or a breakdown in a relationship.

division

Focuses on the state of being separated into distinct groups or factions.

dissociation

Highlights a disconnection from reality, memories, or identity.

FAQs

How can I use "estrangement" in a sentence?

You can use "estrangement" to describe the state of being alienated or separated from someone or something. For example, "The long years of "separation" led to a deep "estrangement" between them".

What are some alternatives to the word "estrangement"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "alienation", ""separation"", or "disaffection" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "estrangement" and "alienation"?

While both terms relate to separation, "estrangement" often implies a prior relationship that has deteriorated, whereas "alienation" can describe a more general feeling of disconnect or isolation without a prior bond.

What causes "estrangement" in relationships?

"Estrangement" can be caused by various factors, including unresolved conflicts, differing values, lack of communication, or significant life events that create distance between individuals.