shunning one another

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shunning one another" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of deliberately avoiding or rejecting interaction with others, often in a social or relational context. Example: "In the aftermath of the disagreement, the members of the group began shunning one another, leading to a breakdown in communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Irina and Althea shunned one another so of course both made it to the Final Three (the producers hope, I assume, for fistfight on the Bryant Park runway).

Huffington Post

But the Democrats appear to be shunning one of his critics: RALPH NADER.

The New York Times

It's skimming the surface, shunning one of the most important developments of the 20th century - the unconscious mind.

The Guardian

The New York Times said the university had shamed itself by shunning one of America's most important playwrights and called for Wiesenfeld's dismissal.

The Guardian

It is not, in fact, the first time that Pienaar has shunned one of English football's most successful sides.

The Guardian - Sport

Regular Joes won't be entirely shunned: one lucky online raffle winner will be selected from a pool of donors who have given a minimum of $3 (and who probably earn as much in a year as the other guests have pledged for their plates).

The Guardian

To shun one's cross is to make it heavier.

Huffington Post

But to shun one of pop's prime movers seems equally fraught — one reason Grammy voters might choose to honor West with a lower-profile producer of the year nod for his impressive studio work on "Ye" along with albums by Pusha-T, Nas and Kids See Ghosts.

Los Angeles Times

Morgan shunned one-of-a-kind properties, but syndicated billions upon billions of below investment grade corporate paper with soon-to-be shabby outcomes.

Forbes

In addition, first-class writers such as Richard Dawkins have found their works shunned on more than one occasion.

The Guardian - Books

Jesus is the one we expect to break social taboos, but instead we hear him uphold all the codes about shunning the one who is different.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "shunning one another" to describe situations where there is a deliberate and sustained effort to avoid or reject interaction, particularly in social or relational contexts. It implies a stronger sense of intentional avoidance than simply 'avoiding each other'.

Common error

Avoid using "shunning one another" to describe mild disagreements or temporary periods of separation. The phrase suggests a significant and intentional rejection, so it's not appropriate for minor conflicts or casual distancing. For instance, instead of saying, "After a small argument, they started shunning one another", use something like, "After a small argument, they started avoiding each other".

Linguistic Context

"Shunning one another" functions as a verbal phrase describing a reciprocal action of avoidance or rejection between two or more parties. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in contexts involving social dynamics and interpersonal relationships, aligning with the definition of deliberate distancing.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "shunning one another" describes a deliberate act of avoidance or rejection between individuals, indicating a breakdown in their relationship. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and notes its usage in various news and media contexts. While not overly frequent, this phrase effectively conveys a strong sense of intentional separation, making it suitable for describing significant social or relational discord. Consider alternatives like "avoiding each other" or "rejecting each other" based on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using "shunning one another", ensure the context warrants the implication of intentional and sustained avoidance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avoiding each other

This alternative focuses on the act of avoidance without necessarily implying a deliberate rejection.

rejecting each other

This alternative emphasizes the act of refusal and disregard in the relationship.

ostracizing one another

This implies a more formal or social exclusion from a group.

giving each other the cold shoulder

This is an idiomatic expression indicating a deliberate display of unfriendliness or disregard.

freezing each other out

Similar to giving the cold shoulder, but with an emphasis on emotional distance.

ignoring one another

This alternative describes the act of not paying attention to each other.

excluding each other

This conveys a sense of active barring from participation or inclusion.

turning their backs on each other

This implies a betrayal or abandonment of support and relationship.

keeping their distance from each other

This suggests a deliberate effort to maintain physical or emotional separation.

cutting each other off

This alternative conveys a definitive end to communication or relationship.

FAQs

What does "shunning one another" mean?

The phrase "shunning one another" means deliberately avoiding or rejecting interaction with each other. It suggests a conscious decision to ignore or exclude someone, often due to disagreement or disapproval.

What can I say instead of "shunning one another"?

You can use alternatives like "avoiding each other", "rejecting each other", or "ostracizing one another" depending on the specific context.

Is "shunning one another" a formal or informal expression?

"Shunning one another" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "ostracizing one another" might be preferred in academic or professional writing.

How is "shunning one another" different from "ignoring one another"?

While both phrases imply a lack of interaction, "shunning one another" suggests a more deliberate and often hostile avoidance. "Ignoring one another" might simply indicate a lack of attention, whereas "shunning one another" implies active rejection.