former enemies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "former enemies" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe individuals or groups that were once in conflict but are no longer adversaries. Example: "After years of hostility, the two nations have become former enemies and are now working together for peace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Sometimes expediency makes former enemies temporary allies.

The New York Times

They shepherded former enemies through a peace deal.

The New York Times

This transformed the two former enemies into a force for European unity and peace.

The New York Times

By the end of 2007, the Americans were holding bicycle races with their former enemies.

The New Yorker

Through reunion ceremonies and monument dedications, former enemies put much of the hatred behind them.

The New York Times

Many of them have been remarkably forgiving of their former enemies.

The Economist

In recent years, he has made a concerted effort to win over his former enemies.

The New Yorker

The former enemies might find, if not common cause, at least mutual interests.

The Economist

He added, "This started after the war putting together former enemies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He is also mingling with other detainees, some of them Muslim and Croat former enemies.

The New York Times

Power is shared between former enemies: Catholic nationalists and Protestant loyalists.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about historical events or political situations, use "former enemies" to clearly indicate a shift from hostility to a more peaceful or cooperative relationship. This term avoids ambiguity and provides a nuanced understanding of evolving dynamics.

Common error

Ensure that the parties involved have genuinely moved beyond animosity before describing them as "former enemies". Using the term prematurely can misrepresent the current state of affairs and mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "former enemies" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a group of entities that previously engaged in hostile actions but are no longer in conflict. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

9%

Huffington Post

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "former enemies" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes entities that were previously hostile but are no longer. According to Ludwig AI, this term effectively communicates a shift in relationship dynamics. Its neutral register makes it versatile for various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and historical accounts. When using this phrase, ensure the relationship has genuinely evolved beyond animosity to avoid misrepresentation. Consider alternatives such as "past adversaries" or "one-time rivals" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Past adversaries

Focuses on the temporal aspect of the relationship, highlighting that they were adversaries in the past.

Previous opponents

Emphasizes the competitive nature of the former relationship.

One-time rivals

Highlights the rivalry that existed between them.

Erstwhile foes

Uses a more formal and less common term for enemies.

Onetime adversaries

Similar to "one-time rivals" but uses a slightly more formal term.

Defunct antagonists

Emphasizes that their antagonistic relationship is no longer active.

Reconciled opponents

Highlights the fact that they have reconciled after being opponents.

Groups in post-conflict reconciliation

Focuses on groups specifically and highlights the reconciliation.

Parties in negotiated peace

Specific to situations where peace has been negotiated.

Those formerly at odds

Simplifies the expression to indicate they were not in agreement.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "former enemies" in a sentence?

Use "former enemies" to describe entities that were previously in conflict but now maintain peaceful or cooperative relations. For instance, "Despite their history, the two countries, now "former enemies", signed a trade agreement".

What are some alternatives to saying "former enemies"?

Consider alternatives like "past adversaries", "previous opponents", or "one-time rivals" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "former enemies" if some hostility still exists?

It's generally best to avoid using "former enemies" if significant hostility remains. Terms like "uneasy allies" or "nominal partners" might be more accurate in such situations.

What distinguishes "former enemies" from "allies"?

"Former enemies" highlights a prior state of conflict, while "allies" describes a current state of cooperation and mutual support. The key difference lies in the historical context of their relationship. They may be allies now, but their history as "former enemies" shapes their present interactions.