lack of rapport

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of rapport" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is an absence of mutual understanding or connection between individuals, often in a professional or social context. Example: "The meeting was unproductive due to a lack of rapport between the team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

After the interval there was one inexplicable lack of rapport between the Bristol defence and its goalkeeper.

The Guardian - Sport

The clergy has become important only because there is a lack of rapport between the Shah and the people".

The New Yorker

I met Anthony Frantantoni, 23, also of Belleville, who despite having fun was already sensing his lack of rapport with the spectators.

The New York Times

But in the event, the lack of rapport between dancers and dance-makers is painfully evident, the material is thin, and the evening drags.

The Guardian

Andrew Billen in the Times picked on the lack of rapport between Evans and LeBlanc: "Chemistry was what we were looking for here, but their badinage was no more than passable offcuts from an unmade transatlantic buddy movie".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Rice had a prickly relationship with writers and, although he repeatedly stressed the positive outcome of the voting, he said that his lack of rapport "probably" contributed to his long wait.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Ms. Mudge imbues Amelia with an air of wary affection that signals how determined she is to give her father the benefit of the doubt, despite their fundamental lack of emotional rapport.

The New York Times

18 19 Lack of trust and rapport between clinicians and Aboriginal patients can result in patient disempowerment and suspicion towards healthcare services.

BMJ Open

Both health workers in the services involved and patients reported long waiting times for consultations, the lack of even a superficial rapport with the prescribing or dispensing doctor, staff turnover, the repeated absence of skilled workers, and faulty equipment.

BMC Health Services Research

Good motivational interviewing or person-centred communication skills might also help to overcome barriers such as lack of midwife-pregnant woman rapport and facilitate screening and ABIs delivery at the first antenatal appointment.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

There are hopes that Raphael Varane, the Real Madrid defender, will recover from injury in time to replace the suspended Laurent Koscielny, and Samir Nasri, who caught considerable flak for his lack of creativity and non-rapport with Franck Ribery in the first leg, is expected to be replaced by Mathieu Valbuena of Marseille.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interpersonal dynamics, consider whether "lack of rapport" is the most precise term. If the issue is more about communication styles, consider "communication breakdown". If it's about feelings, consider "lack of empathy".

Common error

While "lack of rapport" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more nuanced and specific language to describe the exact nature of the disconnect, such as "divergent perspectives" or "conflicting priorities".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of rapport" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the absence of a harmonious or sympathetic connection between individuals or groups, as evidenced by examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of rapport" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the absence of a positive connection or understanding between individuals or groups. As highlighted by Ludwig, this phrase is used across various contexts, including news, science, and general media. While the phrase is generally acceptable, consider more specific alternatives like "absence of connection" or "breakdown in communication" for greater precision. Pay attention to the specific nuance you want to convey, and adjust your word choice accordingly. Ludwig AI confirms the expression is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absence of connection

Emphasizes the complete absence of any link or bond.

poor relationship

Highlights the unsatisfactory quality of the interaction.

breakdown in communication

Focuses on the failure of effective exchange of information and understanding.

lack of understanding

Stresses the absence of mutual comprehension.

discord

Suggests a state of disagreement and friction.

estrangement

Implies a state of separation and alienation.

friction

Highlights the tension and conflict present.

distance

Emphasizes the emotional or social gap between individuals.

absence of empathy

Focuses on the inability to understand and share the feelings of another.

failure to connect

Highlights the unsuccessful attempt to establish a meaningful link.

FAQs

How can I use "lack of rapport" in a sentence?

You can use "lack of rapport" to describe a situation where there is no connection between people. For example: "The project failed due to a "lack of rapport" between team members."

What can I say instead of "lack of rapport"?

You can use alternatives like "absence of connection", "poor relationship", or "breakdown in communication" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "lack of rapport" or "absence of rapport"?

Both "lack of rapport" and "absence of rapport" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Lack of rapport" is more commonly used.

What causes a "lack of rapport" in a professional setting?

A "lack of rapport" can stem from various factors, including differences in communication styles, conflicting goals, or a "lack of empathy" between individuals.