getting a divorce

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting a divorce" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are discussing a divorce that has been legally finalized. For example: "After getting a divorce, the couple split their assets and agreed to an arrangement for child custody."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"We're getting a divorce".

The New Yorker

I was getting a divorce.

The New York Times - Science

I'm getting a divorce.

The New York Times

" "I've been getting a divorce".

The New Yorker

Someone shouted, "Heather's getting a divorce.

The New York Times

"We even thought about getting a divorce," he said.

The New York Times

"Yes," he says finally, "we are getting a divorce".

The New Yorker

"It's almost like getting a divorce," DeBartolo said.

The New York Times - Sports

The couple were in the process of getting a divorce.

The New York Times

Lexi's mother tearfully confided that she was getting a divorce.

The New York Times - Arts

"Your dad and I are getting a divorce".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "getting a divorce", consider the emotional context and choose language that is sensitive and respectful. If the divorce is not yet final, use terms like "filing for divorce" or "undergoing separation."

Common error

Avoid using "getting a divorce" when you mean separation. Separation is a preliminary step, while divorce is the legal termination of the marriage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting a divorce" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the process or action of legally terminating a marriage. Ludwig examples show it used in various contexts, as per its grammatically correct interpretation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "getting a divorce" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe the process of legally ending a marriage. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in various contexts, from news reports to personal narratives. While the phrase itself is neutral, sensitivity should be exercised when discussing the topic. Remember to distinguish separation from divorce and consider the emotional implications. Be aware of its high frequency in News & Media and Wiki sources. Using alternatives such as "filing for divorce" or "dissolving the marriage" can provide nuance and precision to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

divorcing

A more concise verb form.

filing for divorce

Focuses on the legal action of initiating the divorce process, rather than the experience.

seeking a divorce

Emphasizes the act of actively pursuing a divorce.

undergoing a divorce

Emphasizes the process and experience of divorce.

dissolving the marriage

A more formal and legalistic way of describing the end of a marriage.

ending the marriage

A general term for concluding a marital relationship.

separating legally

Highlights the legal aspect of separation before or instead of a divorce.

terminating the marital union

A very formal way to say ending the marriage.

going through a separation

Focuses on the period of separation, which may or may not lead to divorce.

splitting up

A more informal term for ending a relationship, not necessarily a marriage.

FAQs

What does "getting a divorce" mean?

"Getting a divorce" refers to the process of legally ending a marriage. It involves legal proceedings to dissolve the marital union and resolve related issues such as asset division, child custody, and spousal support.

Is there a difference between "getting a divorce" and "filing for divorce"?

"Getting a divorce" is a more general term that encompasses the entire process, while "filing for divorce" specifically refers to the initial legal action of starting the divorce proceedings.

What are some alternatives to "getting a divorce"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "ending the marriage", "dissolving the marriage", or "undergoing a divorce".

How to use "getting a divorce" in a sentence?

You can use "getting a divorce" in a sentence like: "After years of disagreements, they decided they were "getting a divorce""; or "Getting a divorce can be an emotionally challenging process."