on bad terms

USAGE SUMMARY

"on bad terms" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means that two people have a negative or strained relationship. It can be used in a variety of contexts and is typically written as part of a longer sentence. For example: - After their heated argument, John and Sarah are now on bad terms. - The business partners ended their partnership on bad terms, leading to a messy legal battle. - Even though they were once close friends, they are now on bad terms due to a misunderstanding. - He doesn't want to speak to his ex-girlfriend anymore after their breakup, so they are on bad terms. - The politician's controversial statements have put him on bad terms with many of his constituents.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And it may also happen in the Albertan tar sands themselves.That is one reason why staying on bad terms with its aboriginal citizens is a foolish choice for a government which wants to boost investment in natural-resource development.

The Economist

The band dissolved after a 2009 show in Atlanta on bad terms.

Los Angeles Times

"If you leave on bad terms, no one will hire you because they are afraid of what Vito will do to them".

The New York Times

"A lot of analysts say, 'I just cannot afford to be on bad terms with the companies I follow,' " said one longtime Wall Street analyst who asked not to be identified.

The New York Times

And still others left on bad terms.

The New York Times - Magazine

The two parted on bad terms.

The New York Times - Magazine

So strategically it's not a good idea to be on bad terms.

The New Yorker

For the next century the two countries were decidedly more often on bad terms than good.

The New York Times

But she left the magazine, seven years later, on bad terms.

The New Yorker

I don't want anyone to think he and I are on bad terms and we disagree".

The New York Times - Sports

A study of soccer teams suggests that ex-employees who leave on bad terms can be tough competitors.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a past relationship that ended negatively, using "on bad terms" succinctly conveys that the separation was not amicable. It's important to provide context, such as the reason for the falling out, to give the reader a clearer understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "on bad terms" when the situation is merely a minor disagreement. This phrase implies a significant breakdown in relations, not just a temporary spat.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on bad terms" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as an adverbial to modify verbs or clauses. Ludwig AI confirms its use to describe the quality of a relationship, indicating negativity or strain. It specifies the manner in which individuals or entities relate to each other.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on bad terms" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that signifies a strained or negative relationship. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively communicates the quality of interactions between parties, indicating animosity or lack of cordiality. While versatile across various contexts, from News & Media to Academia, it's important to consider the intensity of the situation to ensure appropriateness. Remember, this phrase suggests a significant relationship breakdown, not just a minor disagreement. By understanding these nuances, you can confidently and accurately convey the state of relationships in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on unfriendly terms

A softer version, downplaying the negativity. Indicates a lack of warmth but not necessarily outright hostility.

with strained relations

Focuses on the tension and difficulty in the relationship. It highlights the unease and discomfort present.

not on speaking terms

Directly states that communication has ceased. Focuses solely on the lack of interaction, not necessarily the reasons why.

at odds with

Highlights disagreement and conflict. It's less about the overall relationship and more about specific points of contention.

in conflict with

Highlights the presence of active disagreement. It suggests ongoing opposition or clashes.

in a state of animosity

Focuses on the feeling of hostility. It's more intense and describes the emotional state rather than the relational status.

having a falling out

Emphasizes a specific event that caused the relationship to sour. It's more about the incident than the ongoing state.

at loggerheads

Suggests stubborn disagreement and unwillingness to compromise. It's a more colorful and emphatic way of saying "in conflict with".

estranged from

Indicates a formal separation or alienation. This suggests a greater distance and possibly a more permanent break.

having a feud

Implies a prolonged and bitter quarrel. It's a stronger term suggesting a long-standing animosity.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "on bad terms" with someone?

To be "on bad terms" with someone means having a strained or unfriendly relationship with them, often due to a disagreement or conflict. It suggests a level of animosity or lack of communication between the parties involved.

Are there situations where it's better not to say someone is "on bad terms"?

Yes, if the disagreement is minor or temporary, phrases like "experiencing a disagreement" or "having a slight tiff" may be more appropriate. "On bad terms" suggests a more severe and potentially lasting issue.

What are some alternatives to saying two countries are "on bad terms"?

Instead of saying two countries are "on bad terms", you could say they "have strained relations", "are in conflict", or "have a contentious relationship". The best choice depends on the specific nature of their interactions.

How can I avoid ending a professional relationship "on bad terms"?

To avoid ending a professional relationship "on bad terms", prioritize open and honest communication, address concerns promptly, and strive for a mutually agreeable resolution. Consider mediation or consulting with HR if necessary.