sour relations

USAGE SUMMARY

"sour relations" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe a strained relationship between two people or groups. For example, "The two parties had sour relations for years before coming to an agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The issue continues to sour relations with Russia.

The Economist

CHEAP goods from China can sour relations with America even when they are sweet.

The Economist

The results are likely to sour relations within the coalition to a certain extent.

The Guardian

And sour relations with the United States always limit the space for liberalism in Russia.

The Washington Post

Their departure ended the three-week diplomatic impasse that had threatened to sour relations between the two governments.

The New York Times

A VOTE by the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Thursday March 4th threatens to sour relations between America and Turkey.

The Economist

Third, bankers often keep the principals away from potentially difficult negotiations that could sour relations during the integration stage.

Harvard University

Wrangling over the future of the paintings had threatened to sour relations between the two European allies.

The Guardian - Arts

President Obama wisely began trying to improve the United States' extremely sour relations with Latin America this week.

The New York Times

It is also likely to further sour relations between the bank and the government, according to executives in the industry.

The New York Times

The announcement in October that Russia would not renew the Nunn-Lugar program when it expires in the spring underscored how sour relations had become.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sour relations", be specific about the cause or event that led to the deterioration of the relationship to provide context.

Common error

Avoid using "sour relations" to describe minor disagreements or temporary setbacks. This phrase is most appropriate when describing substantial damage to a relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sour relations" functions as a descriptor, characterizing the nature of the connection between entities. It indicates that the relationship is not positive or harmonious. The use of the adjective "sour" modifies the noun "relations", conveying a negative attribute. As Ludwig AI indicates, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sour relations" effectively describes a strained or damaged relationship, predominantly used in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms it is a correct and usable English phrase. While grammatically sound and widely understood, it's important to use it judiciously, reserving it for situations where the relationship has undergone significant deterioration. Consider related phrases like "strained relationship" or "deteriorating relations" to provide nuanced descriptions. Be mindful of the causes and consequences contributing to "sour relations" to provide a complete and informed perspective in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strained relationship

Focuses on the tension and stress within the relationship.

deteriorating relations

Emphasizes the process of the relationship becoming worse over time.

damaged relationship

Highlights the harm inflicted upon the relationship.

fractured relationship

Suggests a broken or fragmented connection.

unfriendly relations

Indicates a lack of warmth and goodwill.

acrimonious relationship

Highlights bitterness and resentment.

hostile relationship

Emphasizes antagonism and conflict.

discordant relations

Suggests a lack of harmony and agreement.

worsening ties

Implies a gradual decline in the connection between parties.

unharmonious relations

Stresses the absence of agreement and cooperation.

FAQs

What does it mean to say that two countries have "sour relations"?

When countries have "sour relations", it means their relationship is strained, unfriendly, and possibly hostile. This can be due to various political, economic, or historical factors.

What are some other ways to describe "sour relations"?

You can use alternatives like "strained relationship", "deteriorating relations", or "damaged relationship" depending on the specific context.

How can "sour relations" affect international politics?

"Sour relations" can lead to diplomatic tensions, trade disputes, and even military conflicts between countries. It hinders cooperation and mutual understanding.

Is it possible to repair "sour relations" between two entities?

Yes, it is possible but it often requires significant effort, compromise, and willingness to address the underlying issues that caused the relationship to deteriorate. Sometimes, external mediation can help.