strained relations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'strained relations' is perfectly grammatically correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate a deteriorating or difficult relationship between two parties. For example: "The two governments have been struggling to restore their strained relations since the outbreak of the war."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Has this strained relations?

The Washington Post

It was a time of strained relations.

The New York Times

His stand also strained relations with the US.

Independent

How to explain all the coöperation, despite the strained relations?

The New Yorker

His wife, already concerned about their strained relations, objected.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His comments suggested continued strained relations among the court's judges.

The New York Times

It has also strained relations with some friends.

The New Yorker

His push has triggered international condemnation and strained relations with Washington.

The New York Times

The patrols, however, threaten to upset already strained relations with China.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The assessment could harm efforts by Western governments and Belarus to improve their often-strained relations.

The New York Times

The cartoons and the reaction to them aggravated already-strained relations.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strained relations" when you want to convey that a relationship is not only difficult but also potentially unstable and could worsen.

Common error

Avoid using "strained relations" as a vague descriptor. Always provide specific details about the source and nature of the strain to give the reader a clear understanding of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strained relations" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "cause", "lead to", "repair") or as a subject complement. It refers to the condition of a relationship that is experiencing difficulty or tension. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "strained relations" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a difficult or tense relationship, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It is most frequently used in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. When using "strained relations", it's important to provide context to clearly explain the cause of the strain. While alternatives like "tense relationship" or "difficult relationship" exist, "strained relations" specifically conveys a sense of instability and potential for worsening. Being aware of these nuances ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tense relationship

Highlights the tension and potential for conflict.

difficult relationship

Emphasizes the challenging aspect of the relationship.

troubled relationship

General term indicating problems and difficulties.

rocky relationship

Suggests instability and potential problems in the relationship.

uneasy relationship

Focuses on the lack of comfort or trust.

deteriorating relationship

Indicates a relationship that is getting worse.

fractured relationship

Implies a significant break or damage in the relationship.

sour relationship

Suggests bitterness or resentment.

damaged relationship

Highlights the harm done to the relationship.

impaired relationship

Focuses on the diminished quality of the relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "strained relations" in a sentence?

You can use "strained relations" to describe difficult or tense relationships between people, groups, or countries. For example: "The trade dispute has led to "strained relations" between the two nations".

What can I say instead of "strained relations"?

You can use alternatives like "tense relationship", "difficult relationship", or "rocky relationship" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "strained relations" or "difficult relations"?

"Strained relations" implies a higher degree of tension and potential instability compared to "difficult relations", which simply suggests challenges. The best choice depends on the specific situation you are describing.

What causes "strained relations" between countries?

"Strained relations" between countries can arise from various factors, including trade disputes, political disagreements, border conflicts, and differing ideologies.