growing apart

USAGE SUMMARY

"growing apart" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a gradual emotional or physical distance between two individuals or groups. One occasion where you can use this phrase is when describing the deterioration of a once close relationship. For example, "After years of disagreement and conflicting priorities, John and Jane found themselves growing apart and barely speaking to each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

Relationships

Personal Development

Societal Trends

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Growing apart So what?

The Economist

On most issues they are growing apart, not closer together.

The Economist

The detached parts of the dam are growing apart.

Independent

There were financial worries, and we were quietly growing apart.

The New York Times

If growing apart is not a problem, growing old is.

The New York Times - Sports

It's about growing apart and yet also about coming together.

The Guardian

The couple was growing apart, though, and Lerner kept herself busy planning the strike's actions.

The New Yorker

Mr. Gates understands this divergence and the growing apart of the trans-Atlantic relationship.

The New York Times

It is the difference between growing apart and falling apart.America is sorting rather than splitting.

The Economist

Yet the Hong Kong dollar and the yuan have been growing apart.

The Economist

Dear Viktor, you're dead, love Dmitry The drain to Spain Growing apart?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "growing apart" to describe a relationship, make sure to provide context about the reasons for the drift, such as differing values or life goals.

Common error

Avoid using "growing apart" when the situation involves a sudden or dramatic conflict. "Growing apart" implies a gradual divergence, whereas "falling apart" suggests a more abrupt and often negative disintegration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "growing apart" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as a noun that describes a process or state of gradual separation or divergence. Ludwig provides several examples illustrating this function, particularly in the context of relationships and societal trends.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Lifestyle

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "growing apart" is a grammatically correct and commonly used gerund phrase that describes a gradual process of separation or divergence. As confirmed by Ludwig, its primary contexts include relationships, personal development, and societal trends. While it is often used in News & Media, its neutral register makes it adaptable to a variety of situations. When writing, be mindful to differentiate it from "falling apart", which implies a more abrupt disintegration. By providing clear context and understanding its nuances, you can effectively use "growing apart" to convey gradual changes in relationships or entities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drifting away

Focuses on the gradual and often subtle nature of separation.

becoming distant

Stresses the emotional remoteness that develops over time.

diverging paths

Emphasizes the different directions individuals are taking in life.

separating ways

Highlights the action of parting and choosing different routes.

going separate ways

Emphasizes the deliberate choice to follow individual paths.

becoming estranged

Suggests a loss of affection or familiarity, often implying a formal separation.

losing touch

Indicates a decline in communication and shared experiences.

moving in different directions

Highlights the shift in goals or lifestyles causing the separation.

parting company

Implies a formal or business-related separation.

developing independently

Suggests a mutual growth and independence that leads to separation.

FAQs

How can I use "growing apart" in a sentence?

You can use "growing apart" to describe the gradual divergence of individuals, ideas, or entities. For example, "After years of living in different cities, they realized they were growing apart." Or "The two companies, once closely aligned, started growing apart due to differing business strategies."

What's a good alternative to "growing apart"?

Alternatives to "growing apart" include "drifting away", "becoming distant", or "diverging paths". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "growing apart" the same as "falling apart"?

No, "growing apart" and "falling apart" have different meanings. "Growing apart" suggests a gradual and often amicable divergence, while "falling apart" implies a more sudden and negative disintegration. The Economist illustrates this difference, stating, "It is the difference between growing apart and falling apart."

Can "growing apart" apply to non-romantic relationships?

Yes, "growing apart" can apply to various types of relationships, including friendships, family relationships, and professional partnerships. It describes any situation where individuals or entities gradually diverge in their interests, goals, or values, as highlighted in several examples from The New York Times.