frayed relations

USAGE SUMMARY

"frayed relations" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to the strained state of a relationship between two or more people, countries, etc. For example, "The Brexit negotiations have caused frayed relations between Britain and the European Union."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This war has frayed relations between the different European powers and between Europe and America.

The Guardian

At a minimum, the problems in California have frayed relations among power suppliers in the West.

The New York Times

The private sessions were intended to improve frayed relations, particularly with some liberal groups, while reconnecting with supporters.

The New York Times

It pushes Palestinians to radicalism, feeds calls for European sanctions and strains frayed relations with the Obama administration.

The Economist

New differences rooted in the future of the Arab world have again frayed relations between Tehran and Riyadh.

The New York Times

That slowed efforts to sell off the assets of Indonesia's banks, and it frayed relations with the International Monetary Fund.

The New York Times

But the president's caution has frayed relations with important American allies in the Middle East that have privately described the White House strategy as feckless.

The New York Times

So when frayed relations turned openly hostile in recent weeks, it was hardly a surprise to see Pakistani officials flirt publicly with China, America's biggest rival in Asia.

The New York Times

The expropriation has frayed relations between Argentina and Spain, which will want a guarantee from Argentina that it will honour its bond.

The Economist

The shooting at Nisour Square frayed relations between the Iraqi government and the Bush administration and put a spotlight on the United States' growing reliance on private security contractors in war zones.

The New York Times

Page A5 NEW VATICAN-CHINA RIFT The Vatican's unusually public condemnation of a newly ordained Chinese bishop has aggravated the already frayed relations between the Holy See and China's governing Communist Party.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "frayed relations" to describe situations where previously amicable or neutral relationships have become strained due to specific events or ongoing tensions.

Common error

While appropriate for news and formal writing, overuse of "frayed relations" in casual conversation can sound overly dramatic. Opt for simpler alternatives like "strained" or "difficult" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "frayed relations" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb (e.g., "has frayed relations") or as a subject complemented by a verb describing its state. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "frayed relations" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe strained or damaged relationships, predominantly in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI validates its usability, and its neutral to formal register makes it suitable for objective reporting. While alternatives like "strained relationships" or "damaged ties" exist, "frayed relations" specifically emphasizes a gradual weakening of connections. Remember to use it judiciously in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strained relationships

Emphasizes the tension and pressure within the relationship.

strained ties

Synonymous with "strained relationships", highlighting tension.

damaged ties

Focuses on the broken or harmed connections between parties.

deteriorating relations

Highlights the ongoing decline in the quality of the relationship.

sour relationships

Suggests a bitter or unpleasant state of affairs.

rocky relationships

Implies instability and difficulty in maintaining the relationship.

tense relationships

Underlines the discomfort and unease present in the interaction.

impaired relations

Indicates that the relationship's functionality has been weakened.

ruptured relations

Suggests a more severe and potentially irreparable break.

broken rapport

Focuses on the loss of mutual understanding and harmony.

FAQs

How can I use "frayed relations" in a sentence?

You can use "frayed relations" to describe a situation where relationships between individuals, groups, or countries have become strained or damaged, for example: "The trade dispute has led to "frayed relations" between the two nations."

What are some alternatives to saying "frayed relations"?

Alternatives to "frayed relations" include "strained relationships", "damaged ties", or "deteriorating relations", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "frayed relations"?

"Frayed relations" is appropriate when describing a state of tension or damage in a relationship, especially in formal or professional contexts such as news reports, academic papers, or business communications.

What is the difference between "frayed relations" and "broken rapport"?

"Frayed relations" suggests a general strain or damage in a relationship, while "broken rapport" specifically indicates a loss of mutual understanding, harmony, and trust.