stormy relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

"stormy relationship" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to a relationship that is characterized by frequent arguments, conflicts, or emotional turmoil. Example: The couple's stormy relationship was the talk of the town, with their constant fighting and public displays of anger.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The couple had a stormy relationship that included accusations of spousal abuse.

The New York Times

Coughlin and Burress met Friday night to discuss their sometimes stormy relationship.

The New York Times - Sports

"Given the governor's stormy relationship with the unions, that's better than one might have hoped for".

The New York Times

"I wanted to address President Trump's stormy relationship with the press," Blitt said.

The New Yorker

Mr. Lavrov, who had a famously stormy relationship with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, concurred.

The New York Times

Mr. Snyder and Mr. Davis, both volatile personalities, had a famously stormy relationship.

The New York Times - Style

In 1973 Cruyff transferred to Barcelona, beginning a long and sometimes stormy relationship with the club.

The Guardian - Sport

The Bush administration has had its own stormy relationship with General Musharraf.

The New York Times

The West Indies players have often had a stormy relationship with their board.

The Guardian - Sport

These two initially have a stormy relationship but subside into conventional domesticity anchored by work, home, and children.

Encyclopedia Britannica

BEHIND THE NEWS He offered no reason on Friday, but he has had a stormy relationship with MSNBC.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "stormy relationship", provide specific examples of the conflicts or challenges experienced by the individuals involved to offer a clearer and more impactful portrayal.

Common error

Avoid using "stormy relationship" repeatedly in a single text. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms or providing specific details about the relationship's challenges and dynamics to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stormy relationship" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the subject complement, describing the nature or state of a particular interpersonal connection. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is common in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stormy relationship" is a common and easily understood way to describe a relationship characterized by conflict and emotional turmoil. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in written English. Predominantly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources, this phrase serves to quickly convey the unstable nature of a connection. While generally neutral in tone, it's advisable to provide specific details about the relationship's dynamics rather than relying solely on this broad description, especially in formal contexts. Alternatives like "tumultuous connection" or "troubled partnership" can add nuance depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tumultuous connection

Focuses on the chaotic and emotionally turbulent nature of the relationship.

troubled partnership

Emphasizes the difficulties and problems within a more formal or committed relationship.

rocky association

Highlights the instability and potential for conflict within the bond.

contentious bond

Stresses the argumentative and disputatious aspects of the relationship.

difficult entanglement

Suggests a complicated and potentially problematic involvement with someone.

fraught dynamic

Implies that the relationship is filled with tension and potential problems.

turbulent affair

Emphasizes the emotional upheaval and instability of a romantic relationship.

tempestuous liaison

Suggests a passionate but unstable and potentially destructive relationship.

heated exchange

Focuses on the intensity and potential for conflict in communication.

strained alliance

Highlights the tension and lack of ease within a cooperative relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "stormy relationship" in a sentence?

You can use "stormy relationship" to describe any relationship characterized by frequent arguments, conflicts, or emotional turmoil. For example: "Their "stormy relationship" was marked by constant disagreements and reconciliations."

What are some alternatives to "stormy relationship"?

Alternatives to "stormy relationship" include phrases like "tumultuous connection", "troubled partnership", or "rocky association". The best choice depends on the specific nuances you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "stormy relationship" in formal writing?

While "stormy relationship" is widely understood, in formal writing, consider using more precise language to describe the specific issues within the relationship. For instance, you might describe it as a "contentious partnership" or a "difficult alliance".

What distinguishes a "stormy relationship" from a "difficult relationship"?

A "difficult relationship" implies challenges and struggles, while a "stormy relationship" specifically suggests frequent and intense emotional outbursts, arguments, and conflicts. The term "stormy" emphasizes the volatile nature of the interactions.