strain the relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strain the relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing factors or actions that create tension or difficulty in a relationship between individuals or groups. Example: "Frequent misunderstandings can strain the relationship between colleagues, making collaboration challenging."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

"If they can't pay it back, it can strain the relationship".

The New York Times

This incident by itself would be enough to strain the relationship between the Kings and Cousins.

The Guardian - Sport

He said Norway's plan to resume exports would "stress and strain the relationship of our two countries".

The New York Times

All of these approaches put pressure on a placement, and can strain the relationship between a young person and the foster family.

The Guardian

The combative tone of the campaign is certain to strain the relationship between the two men, who had sleepovers during their days in high school government and represented adjoining Congressional districts.

The New York Times

And so, fearing that an employee will become defensive and that the conversation will only strain the relationship, the boss all too often inadvertently sabotages the meeting by preparing for it in a way that stifles honest discussion.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

But hog farming has strained the relationship.

The New York Times

Sheltering Assange further strained the relationship.

The Washington Post

But their differences strained the relationship, and ultimately, the campaign.

The New York Times

WHY has this situation strained the relationship between the United States and Iran?

The New York Times

Although the US and the UK remain strong allies, Iraq has strained the relationship.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overusing the phrase in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "damage the connection" or "weaken the ties" to maintain reader engagement.

Common error

Don't use "strain the relationship" when a relationship is already severely damaged or broken. This phrase suggests tension and difficulty, not complete rupture. Use stronger language if the situation warrants it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strain the relationship" functions as a verb phrase where "strain" acts as a transitive verb, taking "the relationship" as its direct object. It describes an action that negatively impacts or creates tension within a connection, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "strain the relationship" effectively conveys the creation of tension or difficulty within a connection, with Ludwig confirming its grammatical correctness and usability. Predominantly found in news and media, but also present in scientific and wiki contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral tone suitable for varied writing styles. To enhance writing, consider the specific type of strain and avoid overuse by varying your language. Remember, this phrase is more appropriate for describing tension rather than a complete rupture of a relationship.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

weaken the ties

Describes a loosening of the connections or bonds that hold a relationship together.

damage the connection

Emphasizes a more serious and lasting negative impact.

jeopardize the rapport

Highlights the risk of losing mutual understanding and respect, especially in professional settings.

harm the bond

Focuses on emotional or personal relationships, suggesting a weakening of affection or trust.

undermine the understanding

Suggests a subtle weakening of a previously established agreement or consensus.

endanger the alliance

Implies a threat to a formal or strategic partnership, suggesting potential failure or dissolution.

disrupt the harmony

Suggests a disturbance to a peaceful or cooperative state within a relationship.

sour the accord

Indicates a decline in the pleasantness or harmony of a previously positive agreement.

complicate the dynamic

Focuses on making the interactions within a relationship more complex and difficult.

aggravate the situation

Focuses on worsening an already problematic or tense relational context.

FAQs

What does it mean to "strain the relationship"?

To "strain the relationship" means to create tension or difficulty within a connection between people or entities, potentially weakening or damaging it.

How can I use "strain the relationship" in a sentence?

You can use "strain the relationship" to describe situations where actions or circumstances cause tension or difficulty. For example: "Constant arguments can "strain the relationship" between partners."

What are some alternatives to saying "strain the relationship"?

Alternatives include phrases like "damage the connection", "harm the bond", or "weaken the ties" depending on the context and the intensity of the impact you want to convey.

Is "strain the relationship" formal or informal language?

"Strain the relationship" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile phrase for various writing styles.