tortuous relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tortuous relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship that is complicated, difficult, or full of twists and turns, often implying emotional or psychological challenges. Example: "Their tortuous relationship was marked by constant misunderstandings and unresolved conflicts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The tortuous relationship of T. S. Eliot and Emily Hale.

The New Yorker

It has been a tortuous relationship, and one that is still evolving.

The New Yorker

This, in turn, reflects the country's tortuous relationship with the EU.

The Economist

Heavy metal has had a long and tortuous relationship with humour.

Independent

The tortuous relationship between Serbia and Croatia has been overcome sufficiently to run these cross-border trains – creating at least one smooth passage for the tired and traumatised.

The Guardian

Amid all the fuss and the madness he embarked upon a tortuous relationship with his co-star, Kristen Stewart, that meant the young couple were rarely out of the gossip pages.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The choreography by which MacMillan expresses these tortuous inter-relationships assumes the rococo style of the day.

The Guardian

The reasons they give centre on Britain's tortuous and complicated relationship with the continent.

The Guardian

The soul of "Speak No Evil" is the tortuous, exquisitely rendered relationship between Niru and his father, a man whose authority his son resents and admires.

The New Yorker

The American concerns also highlight the tortuous and ambivalent relationship that law enforcement officials have long had with Saudi Arabia, which has failed to be as cooperative as promised in other high-profile terrorism cases.

The New York Times

Anyone seeking to understand Britain's tortuous and tortured relationship with its continental neighbours in the post-war period has no option but to read it and ponder it deeply.In this section Complex number Unlucky Lindy Almost there Into the light Onegin's creator Is reportage killing Latin fiction?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tortuous relationship" to describe relationships marked by significant difficulty, complexity, and emotional strain. It is particularly effective when highlighting a long history of conflict or misunderstanding.

Common error

Avoid using "tortuous" when you mean "torturous". "Tortuous" describes something winding or complex, while "torturous" describes something causing great pain or suffering. Use "torturous" to describe an experience filled with agony rather than a complicated relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tortuous relationship" functions as a noun phrase, where "tortuous" modifies the noun "relationship". It serves to describe the quality of the relationship, indicating complexity and difficulty. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tortuous relationship" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a complex and challenging connection. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable. While not extremely common, it appears in reputable sources like The Guardian and The New York Times. The key is to use it when you want to emphasize the complicated and often painful aspects of a relationship, ensuring you don't confuse it with "torturous". Consider "complicated relationship" or "difficult relationship" as alternative options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complicated relationship

This alternative replaces "tortuous" with a more general term for complexity.

difficult relationship

This alternative focuses on the hardship and challenges within the relationship.

strained relationship

This phrase highlights the tension and pressure affecting the connection.

troubled relationship

This alternative emphasizes the presence of problems and difficulties.

rocky relationship

This phrase suggests instability and frequent conflicts.

tumultuous relationship

This alternative indicates a relationship filled with chaos and strong emotions.

byzantine relationship

This phrase implies extreme complexity and intricacy, often with hidden agendas.

convoluted relationship

This alternative stresses the intricate and confusing nature of the connection.

thorny relationship

This phrase highlights the presence of sensitive and potentially painful issues.

knotty relationship

This alternative suggests a complex and difficult-to-resolve connection.

FAQs

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

You can use "tortuous relationship" to describe a complex and difficult relationship, such as "Their tortuous relationship was marked by frequent arguments and betrayals."

What are some alternatives to "tortuous relationship"?

You can use alternatives like "complicated relationship", "difficult relationship", or "strained relationship" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "tortuous relationship" is appropriate for formal writing when describing a complex and challenging relationship. However, consider the audience and context to ensure it aligns with the desired tone.

What's the difference between "tortuous" and "torturous"?

"Tortuous" describes something winding or complex, while "torturous" describes something causing great pain or suffering. A "tortuous relationship" is complicated, while a torturous experience is extremely painful.