messy divorce

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'messy divorce' is totally correct and usable in written English.
It is a colloquial phrase, however, and should only be used in informal contexts. For example: My friend's parents had a messy divorce last year, and it was really hard on her.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was involved in a messy divorce.

The New York Times

Maybe it's going to end in a messy divorce.

The New York Times

ME: She's just coming out of a messy divorce.

The New Yorker

But a messy divorce in 2004 pushed her into bankruptcy.

The New York Times

They are like an angry party to a messy divorce.

The Guardian

A messy divorce could reverberate through the streets and political systems.

The New York Times

It was essentially Step 1 of what could be a very messy divorce.

The New York Times

Like any messy divorce, drawn out negotiations around defaults can be costly for all parties involved.

The Economist

Mr. Leder and his wife of 22 years, Lisa, began to go through a messy divorce.

The New York Times

In the book, Gilbert embarks on a journey of self-discovery after a messy divorce.

Independent

It's about a woman who finds herself through surfing after a messy divorce.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "messy divorce", consider the audience and context. It is appropriate for informal discussions or news reporting but may be too colloquial for formal legal documents.

Common error

Avoid using "messy divorce" in formal or academic writing. Opt for more neutral terms like "contentious divorce" or "complex separation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "messy divorce" functions as a descriptive term, characterizing a particular type of divorce proceeding. It's used to quickly convey the idea of a divorce that is complicated, contentious, and often public. Ludwig provides examples of this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "messy divorce" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe a divorce characterized by conflict and complications. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is acceptable for general use, although may not be appropriate for formal writing, where alternatives such as "contentious divorce" might be more suitable. It frequently appears in news and media contexts, denoting public and often difficult legal battles. When writing about divorce, considering context and audience is vital for choosing the most effective and appropriate language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult divorce

Indicates the presence of challenges and obstacles in the divorce process.

high-conflict divorce

Stresses the elevated level of conflict and legal battles involved.

acrimonious split

Focuses on the bitterness and hostility involved in the separation.

bitter separation

Highlights the negativity and resentment present during the divorce.

complicated divorce

Highlights the intricacy and complexity of the divorce proceedings.

ugly breakup

Implies a distasteful and unpleasant end to the relationship.

contentious dissolution of marriage

Emphasizes the disagreement and conflict associated with ending the marriage, using more formal language.

drawn-out divorce

Emphasizes the extended duration and prolonged nature of the divorce.

tumultuous parting

Suggests a chaotic and emotionally charged separation.

public divorce battle

Highlights the public attention and scrutiny the divorce receives.

FAQs

What does "messy divorce" mean?

A "messy divorce" refers to a divorce that is complicated, often involving significant conflict, public disputes, and difficult legal proceedings. It's characterized by high emotions and a lack of amicable resolution.

What are some synonyms for "messy divorce"?

Synonyms for "messy divorce" include "acrimonious split", "bitter separation", and "high-conflict divorce". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "messy divorce" in formal writing?

While "messy divorce" is widely understood, it is generally considered too informal for academic or legal writing. Opt for more neutral or technical terms in formal contexts.

How can I avoid making my divorce a "messy divorce"?

To avoid a "messy divorce", focus on clear communication, consider mediation, and prioritize the well-being of any children involved. Seeking legal counsel early can also help navigate the process smoothly.