hardened relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hardened relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship that has become more rigid, inflexible, or strained over time, often due to negative experiences or conflicts. Example: "After years of misunderstandings and arguments, their once close friendship had turned into a hardened relationship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The hardened concrete and the relationships between hardened properties were then studied.

Construction and Building Materials

Each season of The Crown is dedicated to a decade in Queen Elizabeth II's reign, with the first 10-episode installment, directed by Stephen Daldry (The Hours, Billy Elliot), centering on her ascension to the throne while forging a relationship with war-hardened prime minister Winston Churchill.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Similar to the long-term creep behavior of soils, a unique isotache-type hvp-P-˙ε relationship is found for hardened cement pastes at micro level.

Cement and Concrete Research

In this experiment, synthetic polymers were investigated on their effect on the properties of hardened gypsum pieces, focusing on the structure function relationship.

Ceramics International

The frames on the story that emerged in international media, even before public resistance was finally quashed, reinforced several common and hardened beliefs about power, violence and the relationship between the two.

Huffington Post

Continually making excuses for sin leads to a hardened conscience, which in turn can destroy relationships (both earthly and spiritual) and cause moral instability.

WikiHow

That means stronger sea walls, natural barriers, hardened power grids, hardened water systems, hardened fuel supplies".

The New York Times

Although the extent of their relationship remains unclear, the commanders have embraced a hardened stance that may bode ill for the U.S. military.

Los Angeles Times

He dismissed General H. R. McMaster, who couldn't survive a testy relationship with the impatient President despite his battle-hardened career and three stars on his epaulets.

The New Yorker

Furthermore, the slope of this linear relationship can be estimated from the chemical composition of the hardened steel based on the equivalent carbon number.

International Journal of Machine Tools and Manufacture

In a book written from jail about her relationship with her daughter, Fusako Shigenobu paints a picture of a hardened revolutionary poring over Dr. Spock books as she tries to change diapers and allay the anxieties common to any new mother.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hardened relationship", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. It implies a rigidity and inflexibility that other similar phrases might not capture. For example, use it when describing a relationship that has become resistant to change or improvement due to past hurts or disagreements.

Common error

Avoid using "hardened relationship" in situations where the tension is temporary or minor. This phrase suggests a deep-seated and persistent issue, and using it lightly can sound melodramatic. Consider alternatives like "strained relationship" or "difficult relationship" for less severe situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hardened relationship" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "hardened" modifies the noun "relationship". It describes the quality or state of a relationship that has become inflexible and difficult due to negative experiences. Ludwig AI indicates it's a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hardened relationship" describes a connection that has become rigid, inflexible, and often strained due to negative experiences. While grammatically correct and usable, Ludwig AI indicates that the term isn't very common. It carries a neutral tone and can be used to characterize personal, political, or even professional relationships. When considering alternatives such as "strained relationship" or "fractured relationship", it is important to choose the one that best reflects the specific nuance you want to convey. The phrase implies a resistance to change, therefore it is more appropriate in describing long-standing issues rather than temporary tension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strained relationship

Focuses on the tension and difficulty present in the relationship.

deteriorated relationship

Highlights the decline in quality and health of the relationship over time.

fractured relationship

Emphasizes the broken or fragmented nature of the relationship.

damaged relationship

Indicates harm or injury inflicted upon the relationship.

rocky relationship

Suggests instability and frequent conflicts within the relationship.

acrimonious relationship

Highlights the bitterness and resentment present in the relationship.

embittered relationship

Focuses on the resentment and cynicism that have developed within the relationship.

estranged relationship

Emphasizes the distance and lack of communication between the parties.

frosty relationship

Indicates a cold and unfriendly atmosphere in the relationship.

difficult relationship

Highlights the challenges and struggles involved in maintaining the relationship.

FAQs

What does "hardened relationship" mean?

A "hardened relationship" describes a connection that has become rigid, inflexible, and often strained due to negative experiences, unresolved conflicts, or a build-up of resentment. It suggests a state where the relationship is difficult to repair or improve.

What are some synonyms for "hardened relationship"?

You can use alternatives such as "strained relationship", "damaged relationship", or "fractured relationship" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "hardened relationship" in formal writing?

Yes, "hardened relationship" is appropriate for formal writing, but it's important to consider the specific tone and context. It is suitable when describing a serious or long-standing issue within a relationship.

How does a "hardened relationship" differ from a "difficult relationship"?

While a "difficult relationship" implies general challenges and struggles, a "hardened relationship" suggests a more severe and entrenched state. "Hardened" implies that the difficulties have led to rigidity and a resistance to change, making the relationship harder to resolve compared to simply a "difficult relationship".