schism

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "schism" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a split or division within a group, usually caused by a disagreement about ideas or beliefs. For example: "The schism between the two political factions had a lasting impact on the country's stability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Perhaps Ukip will slice the rightwing vote in two, leaving the nearest left-leaning candidate open to exploit the schism.

The Guardian

He is able to talk without rancour of the schism between himself and the minister for public works in the New South Wales government, Davis Hughes.

The Guardian - Arts

She doesn't believe that web series are done for, but rather that a schism is forming that will see online content becoming more like traditional film.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

France nearly wiped out Occitan and Breton speakers with French-only policies, and protests over the short-lived imposition of Urdu on what is now Bangladesh foreshadowed its schism with Pakistan.The shift in America's approach to minority languages was matched by trends elsewhere.

The Economist

He will now attempt to govern his fractious country of 750,000 people without recourse to parliament, possibly until the end of April, when he needs a new budget for routine spending to continue.In this section From bad to worse If you can't beat 'em, referendum A harsh light A 60-year schism A southern Reformation ReprintsThe conflict goes deeper than ordinary political rivalry.

The Economist

But the growing Sunni-Shia schism, exacerbated by the row over Shia Iran's nuclear ambitions, is now creating discomfort for Shias farther afield.A mob led by Sunni fanatics torched Shia property on December 29th in eastern Java in normally placid Indonesia, forcing hundreds of villagers to flee.

The Economist

After this terrible week, it would be foolish to deny the dangers that can arise from this ancient schism.

The Economist

It is not only the schism that turns voters off; the vehemence of it seems scary, weird and disproportionate.

The Economist

The Sunni-Shia schism may have lasted for 14 centuries, but most of that time it has lain dormant.

The Economist

It may be the opposition's best chance to unseat him.In this section From bad to worse If you can't beat 'em, referendum A harsh light A 60-year schism A southern Reformation ReprintsMr Correa's foes have long suspected that he would try to stay in power indefinitely, following the lead of authoritarian allies like Venezuela's Hugo Chávez, who died in office in 2013.

The Economist

They have kept arming and recruiting soldiers through the truce, as Mrs Kumaratunga's camp has insistently pointed out.Such warnings serve as a reminder that the schism in Sinhalese politics is only one of three big obstacles to peace.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "schism" when you specifically want to emphasize a formal or significant division, particularly within religious or political contexts. It carries a stronger connotation of discord than a simple "division".

Common error

Avoid using "schism" when a simpler term like "division" or "split" suffices. "Schism" implies a deeper ideological or organizational break, so using it in less significant contexts can sound pretentious or overdramatic.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "schism" is as a noun. It typically acts as the subject or object in a sentence, denoting a state of division. Ludwig shows that "schism" is often used to describe separations in political or religious 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

In summary, "schism" is a noun denoting a significant division or separation, most often used in news and formal contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in discussions of political and religious divides. While similar to terms like "division" or "split", "schism" carries a stronger connotation of discord and a more formal tone. Therefore, it's essential to reserve its use for contexts where this gravity is warranted. Employing "schism" correctly will enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

division

Emphasizes the act of dividing or separating something.

split

Highlights a sudden or distinct break.

separation

Focuses on the state of being apart or divided.

rift

Suggests a crack or break in a relationship or unity.

breach

Implies a violation or breaking of a rule or agreement, leading to division.

rupture

Conveys a sudden and forceful break or separation.

cleavage

Indicates a sharp division or split, often in opinions or beliefs.

discord

Highlights a lack of harmony or agreement, leading to division.

estrangement

Focuses on the state of being alienated or separated from someone or something.

factionalism

Emphasizes division into factions or groups with conflicting interests.

FAQs

How to use "schism" in a sentence?

Use "schism" to describe a formal split or division within a group or organization, often due to strong disagreement. For example: "The "schism" in the political party weakened its chances in the election."

What can I say instead of "schism"?

You can use alternatives like "division", "split", or "separation" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "schism" or "chasm"?

"Schism" refers to a division within a group, while "chasm" refers to a deep fissure or gap, often metaphorical. They are not interchangeable.

What's the difference between "schism" and "discord"?

"Schism" is a formal separation or division, often organizational, while "discord" refers to a lack of agreement or harmony that may or may not lead to a formal split.