relationship soured

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relationship soured" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a previously positive relationship has become negative or strained. Example: "After the disagreement over finances, their relationship soured, and they stopped speaking to each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But their relationship soured.

The Guardian

At some point their relationship soured, dramatically.

The New York Times

But over the years their relationship soured.

The New York Times

That's part of the reason their relationship soured, explains Gibney.

The Guardian - Film

But once they returned to Switzerland the relationship soured.

The New Yorker

But the close relationship soured, largely because of economic issues.

The New York Times

Why has the relationship soured lately between museums and archaeologists?

The New York Times - Arts

But their relationship soured over an expenses claim.

The Guardian

The relationship soured on the set of Marnie.

The Guardian - Film

But after five years of marriage, their relationship soured.

The Guardian

The couple had four kids together, but their relationship soured.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "relationship soured", clearly indicate the reason or event that caused the deterioration. This provides context and makes the statement more impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "relationship soured" without providing any background information. The phrase is more effective when the audience understands the factors that led to the change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relationship soured" functions as a concise way to describe the deterioration of a connection between individuals or entities. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts. It often acts as a pivotal statement, signaling a shift from a positive to a negative dynamic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "relationship soured" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the deterioration of a connection between individuals or entities. As verified by Ludwig, this phrase is most frequently found in News & Media contexts. When employing "relationship soured", it's beneficial to provide context about the factors that led to the decline. Alternatives include "relationship deteriorated" and "relationship turned sour", offering nuanced ways to express similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Relationship deteriorated

Indicates a gradual decline in the quality of the relationship.

Relationship turned sour

Emphasizes a negative change in the relationship's dynamics.

Relationship worsened

Focuses on the increasing negativity and problems within the relationship.

Relationship grew strained

Highlights the increasing tension and difficulty in the relationship.

Relationship broke down

Suggests a complete failure and end of the relationship.

Relationship declined

Suggests a slow and steady decrease in the quality of the relationship.

Relationship went bad

A more casual way of saying the relationship became unpleasant.

Relationship faltered

Implies the relationship became unstable and began to fail.

Relationship collapsed

Suggests a sudden and complete failure of the relationship.

Relationship became acrimonious

Indicates the relationship turned bitter and hostile.

FAQs

What does it mean when a relationship has "soured"?

When a "relationship soured", it means that a previously positive or friendly relationship has become negative, strained, or unpleasant. It suggests a decline in the quality of the relationship due to certain events or issues.

What are some signs that a relationship might be souring?

Signs that a relationship is souring can include increased arguments, decreased communication, a sense of distance or mistrust, and a general feeling of unhappiness or resentment.

What can I say instead of "relationship soured"?

You can use alternatives like "relationship deteriorated", "relationship grew strained", or "relationship turned sour" depending on the specific context.

Is "relationship soured" a formal or informal way to describe a deteriorating relationship?

"Relationship soured" is generally considered a neutral way to describe a deteriorating relationship. It's suitable for both informal and formal contexts, though more formal alternatives like "relationship deteriorated" may be preferred in certain professional settings.