is riven between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is riven between" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is torn or divided between two opposing forces or choices. Example: "Her heart is riven between her duty to her family and her desire for independence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

And Tudjman's ruling party continues to be riven between hardline nationalists and moderate conciliators.

The Guardian

Since a disputed election in December, the island has been riven between Marc Ravalomanana, a yoghurt tycoon who won the vote and controls the mountains, and Didier Ratsiraka, who ruled the country for more than two decades and still controls the coast.

The Economist

Because of the persecution, however, a number of Christian communities were riven between those who had complied with imperial authorities (traditores) and those who had refused.

Wikipedia

In short, the Kurds have started to create a viable economy.Yet the region is riven by divisions between Syrian Kurdish political factions.

The Economist

Torn into fiefs, it is riven by conflict between two rival governments—an internationally recognised one in Tobruk and another in Tripoli along with two main militia groupings allied with them.

The Economist

"It is as if they wanted to show: 'You can claim whatever, but don't exaggerate".' The image and credibility of the royal family matters in this European Union nation, which is riven by divisions between its 6.5 million Dutch-speakers and its 4.5 million French-speakers.

Independent

Aden – which was supposed to be a stepping stone for a broader campaign to reverse the Houthis' military gains – is riven with conflict between rival militias and has suffered from Isis suicide bombings and assassinations, and the anti-Houthi militias in Taiz have endured a debilitating siege for months.

The Guardian

American fiction is riven by a conflict between innocence and experience.

The Guardian - Books

The second is riven by divisions, not only between Bosniaks and Croats, but also among Bosniak leaders.

The Economist

It has struggled with the transition to civilian rule and is riven with ethnic divisions, including between Mr Kiir's Dinka and the Nuer led by vice-president, Riek Machar.

The Economist

It has struggled with the transition to civilian rule and is riven with ethnic divisions, including between Mr Kiir's Dinka and the Nuer led by the vice-president, Riek Machar.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is riven between", ensure that the context clearly establishes the opposing forces or entities causing the division. The phrase is most effective when highlighting deep or irreconcilable differences.

Common error

Avoid using "is riven between" in situations where a simpler phrase like "is divided between" would suffice. The term carries a strong connotation of conflict and should be reserved for situations where the division is significant and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is riven between" functions as a descriptive expression, indicating a state of deep division or conflict. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is grammatically correct and highlights examples where it describes entities torn by opposing forces.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Wiki

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is riven between" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a state of deep division or conflict. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its relative infrequency suggests using it judiciously, primarily in contexts where the intensity of the division warrants such strong language. Consider alternatives like "is torn between" or "is divided between" for less dramatic situations. It’s register leans towards neutral, it conveys a more profound and potentially destructive division. Be mindful of the strong connotations it carries.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is torn between

This alternative is more common and implies a difficult choice between two options.

is divided between

This alternative is a more general term for separation into parts or groups.

is split between

Similar to 'divided', this option emphasizes the act of separating into distinct parts.

is conflicted between

This option highlights the internal struggle or opposition between different elements.

is at odds between

This alternative suggests a state of disagreement or opposition.

is fractured between

Implies a more severe break or fragmentation.

is fragmented between

Similar to 'fractured', indicating a breaking into smaller, disconnected parts.

is polarized between

This alternative emphasizes the creation of opposing groups or viewpoints.

experiences conflict between

Shifts the focus to the experience of conflict rather than a state of division.

faces tension between

Highlights the presence of strain or pressure between different entities.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as being "is riven between" opposing forces?

It means that something is deeply divided or torn apart by conflict between those forces. The phrase suggests a significant and often irreconcilable split.

Are there less dramatic alternatives to saying something "is riven between" two things?

Yes, you could use phrases like "is divided between", "is split between", or "is torn between" to convey a similar meaning with less emphasis on conflict.

In what kind of situations would you use the phrase "is riven between"?

This phrase is most appropriate when describing situations characterized by deep conflict, strong disagreements, or seemingly irreconcilable differences between opposing sides.

Is "is riven between" interchangeable with "is characterized by tension between"?

While both phrases suggest conflict, "is riven between" implies a more profound and potentially destructive division than "is characterized by tension between". Tension suggests strain; "is riven between" suggests a deep schism.