they were estranged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were estranged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two people, often family members or close friends, have become distant or disconnected from each other emotionally or socially. Example: "After years of conflict, they were estranged, and their once-close relationship had deteriorated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

At the time, they were estranged.

The New York Times - Sports

He told me that they were estranged, and had been for several years.

The New Yorker

And perhaps the saddest: Half of the 28 who had children said they were estranged from their own children.

The New York Times

The actor Jon Voight and his daughter, Angelina Jolie, were photographed together in February for the first time since they were estranged in 2002.

The New York Times

Yet when she subsequently wrote about the affair, long after it was public knowledge, he went into such a colossal huff that they were estranged for months.

The Guardian - Books

This decision, which also played out so wrenchingly in Ben Affleck's film version of the book, was painful enough to separate Patrick from Angie, so that they were estranged at the start of Mr. Lehane's 1999 "Prayers for Rain".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

*** They are estranged now.

The Guardian - Books

Maybe they are estranged from them.

The New York Times

Yet if the schools look like sisters, they are estranged.

The New York Times

(His biological parents remained in Italy for many years; they are estranged from their son).

The New Yorker

Today they are estranged; Rebecca was told by a cousin he had replaced her in Alice's will.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they were estranged" to clearly indicate a state of separation or distance, particularly when highlighting a past relationship that has deteriorated. Be mindful of the emotional weight the phrase carries, as it suggests a significant breakdown in connection.

Common error

Avoid using "they were estranged" to describe minor disagreements or temporary conflicts. Estrangement implies a more profound and lasting separation. Opt for phrases like "they had a disagreement" or "they were arguing" for less severe situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were estranged" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating a state of separation or alienation between two or more individuals. It's used to convey that a previously close relationship has deteriorated. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Books

15%

Science

9%

Less common in

Arts

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they were estranged" effectively communicates a state of separation or alienation between individuals. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically sound and commonly employed across various contexts, particularly in news, books and media. While conveying a serious tone, it appropriately suits formal and analytical discussions about relationship breakdowns. For situations involving minor disagreements, alternative phrases may be more fitting. Considering the emotional weight of estrangement ensures clarity in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they were not on speaking terms

Similar to "they no longer spoke", emphasizing the lack of communication.

their relationship had broken down

Focuses on the failure of the relationship, implying a more formal or significant connection.

they had fallen out

Focuses on a specific event that caused the estrangement, emphasizing a disagreement or quarrel.

they were distant

Emphasizes a lack of emotional closeness or connection.

they were alienated

Emphasizes a sense of emotional separation and potential animosity.

they had drifted apart

Highlights a gradual distancing over time, suggesting a less confrontational separation.

they were on bad terms

Suggests an ongoing state of animosity or disagreement.

they were at odds

Highlights the conflict and disagreement between them.

they no longer spoke

Highlights the lack of communication as a key element of their separation.

they were separated

Implies a formal or legal separation, often in the context of marriage.

FAQs

What does "they were estranged" mean?

The phrase "they were estranged" means that two or more people were once close but have become distant or alienated from each other, often due to conflict or disagreement. It implies a significant breakdown in their relationship.

What can I say instead of "they were estranged"?

You can use alternatives like "they were alienated", "they had fallen out", or "they had drifted apart" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "they were estranged" in formal writing?

Yes, "they were estranged" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing relationships in a serious or analytical context. However, consider the audience and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "they were estranged" and "they were separated"?

"They were separated" often implies a formal or legal separation, particularly in the context of marriage or partnership. "They were estranged", on the other hand, indicates a more general state of emotional or social distance, which may or may not involve legal proceedings.