thawing of relations

USAGE SUMMARY

"thawing of relations" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to an improvement in diplomatic or personal relationships between people or countries, and when referring to the gradual improvement of something that had previously been strained. For example, "The two nations have experienced a thawing of relations following years of political tension."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In a possible thawing of relations between Apple and the F.B.I., Apple C.E.O.

The New Yorker

The meeting also showed a thawing of relations over the contentious issue of North Korean defectors.

The Guardian

Cameron's week gets even worse *No thawing of relations between Terry Gilliam and James Cameron.

Independent

For example, he proposes a slight thawing of relations with Cuba (see article).

The Economist

It is a remarkable sign of the thawing of relations between the west and Iran that the phone contact occurred.

The Guardian

The next step in the thawing of relations between the Ivy League and the military involves greater mutual understanding.

The New York Times

But it is still uncertain whether that will lead to a more genuine thawing of relations with the West.

The Economist

The recent thawing of relations between Turkey and Israel (Cyprus's perceived "ally" in efforts for gas exploration) could further complicate things for Greek Cypriots.

The Guardian - Opinion

It took two more decades for the threat to recede, but since 2000 there has been a noticeable thawing of relations.

The Guardian

High point: Invited to attend African union summit in July, signalling thawing of relations between the AU and ICC strained under Luis Moreno-Ocampo.

The Guardian

Japan has viewed a thawing of relations between Kim Jong-il and the US with some concern and is determined the abduction issue will not be sidelined.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a sudden or dramatic improvement, consider using terms like "rapprochement" or "normalization of relations" instead of "thawing of relations".

Common error

Avoid using "thawing of relations" to describe relationships that were never strained or hostile. This phrase implies a prior period of negativity or tension that is now diminishing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thawing of relations" functions as a noun phrase typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the process of previously strained relationships becoming more cordial. As demonstrated by Ludwig, the phrase frequently appears in news and media contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "thawing of relations" is a correct and commonly used noun phrase that describes the gradual improvement of previously strained relationships. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts, suggesting its prevalent use in describing diplomatic and political developments. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects a situation where relations were previously negative or tense. Consider alternatives such as "improvement in relations" or "normalization of relations" for different nuances. Avoid using "thawing of relations" in contexts where the relationship was never strained. Remember to check Ludwig for more examples and usage tips.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

warming of ties

Similar to "thawing", but may suggest a more emotional or personal connection.

improvement in relations

Emphasizes the positive change in the relationship without necessarily implying a previous state of hostility.

normalization of relations

Focuses on returning relations to a standard, expected state.

rapprochement

A more formal term suggesting a deliberate effort to re-establish friendly relations.

betterment of relations

Focuses on the act of making relationships better and improving them.

easing of tensions

Highlights the reduction of conflict or strain in the relationship.

strengthening of ties

Highlights the act of making the connections between parties stronger.

mending of fences

An idiomatic expression for resolving disputes and restoring goodwill.

building bridges

A metaphor suggesting efforts to connect disparate parties or viewpoints.

restoration of amity

Focuses on the act of restoring the friendly relationships between the parties.

FAQs

How can I use "thawing of relations" in a sentence?

You can use "thawing of relations" to describe the improvement of previously strained relationships, as in, "The summit signaled a "thawing of relations" between the two countries after years of conflict."

What's a good alternative to "thawing of relations"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "thawing of relations" include "improvement in relations", "rapprochement", or "normalization of relations".

Is "thawing of relations" formal or informal?

"Thawing of relations" is generally considered a neutral to formal phrase, suitable for news reports, academic papers, and professional communications. Consider "warming of ties" for a less formal alternative.

What kind of relationships can "thawing of relations" describe?

"Thawing of relations" typically describes political or diplomatic relationships between countries or organizations, but it can also describe personal relationships where there has been a prior period of estrangement.