undermine relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

'undermine relationship' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation where the actions of someone have caused the situation between two people or groups to be worse, especially when this involves a loss of trust. For example: His insensitive jokes began to undermine the relationship between the two friends.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

However there may be a cut-off point after which the increasing complexity of maintaining so many separate communications threads starts to undermine relationship ties".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Most such espionage is a complete waste of time – and a good way to undermine relationships between countries.

The New York Times

Isn't that the simplest answer to most of the travails that undermine relationships?

Huffington Post

"The President does not seem to realize or appreciate that his bragging can undermine relationships with our allies and with human intelligence sources.

Huffington Post

Issues of stigma and discrimination related to HIV/AIDS remain a real concern in many settings [78] and may lead to social isolation, limit sources of social capital, and undermine relationships that are essential for survival [70], [78].

Plosone

Healthcare delivery models that acknowledge patient fears related to stigmatization and isolation are critical as these can undermine relationships that are essential for survival [ 57, 58].

BMC Health Services Research

In any case, participants were concerned that failing to share SC trait information, where this was known by researchers, could undermine relationships between residents and researchers where this was seen as 'withholding' important information.

BMC Medical Ethics

Obsessed with the fact that he is short and deaf, by his own description, he undermined relationships.

The New York Times - Science

Indeed, in corrupting and undermining relationships between service users and professionals they can only make recovery harder.

The Guardian

We all know today's situation runs the risk of aggravating long-term bitterness and undermining relationships that are critical to any hope of peace.

The New York Times

In the ABHI Implementation Plan EFHIA this influence was described as impairing or undermining relationships and potentially limiting future collaboration.

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more specific verbs like "erode", "strain", or "damage" to provide a nuanced description of how the relationship is being affected.

Common error

While "undermine relationship" is common, avoid overuse in formal writing. Vary your language with phrases like "jeopardize the partnership" or "damage diplomatic ties" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "undermine relationship" functions primarily as a verb phrase where "undermine" (verb) describes an action that negatively affects the "relationship" (noun). As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable phrase in written English, often signifying a gradual weakening or erosion of trust between parties.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "undermine relationship" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes actions that weaken or damage connections. As Ludwig AI states, it's often used to express concern over the erosion of trust between people or groups. It appears commonly in News & Media and Scientific contexts and its formality is considered neutral. While acceptable across various contexts, more specific verbs or alternative phrases may be considered to better suit the specific nuances and formality requirements of a writing project.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undermine alliance

The word "alliance" implies a more formal agreement than a general "relationship".

damage ties

Focuses on the tangible harm to connections, often implying repair is needed.

weaken bonds

Emphasizes a reduction in the strength of the connection.

erode trust

Highlights the gradual destruction of confidence within the connection.

strain connections

Indicates the introduction of stress or tension into the existing link.

harm interaction

The word "interaction" specifically emphasizes the negative impact on the direct exchange between entities.

jeopardize rapport

Stresses the risk posed to the harmonious understanding between parties.

disrupt association

Focuses on the interruption or disturbance of a connection.

impair alliance

Specifically denotes damage to a formal agreement or partnership.

sabotage rapport

Implies intentional disruption or damage to the positive connection.

FAQs

How can actions "undermine" a "relationship"?

Actions can "undermine" a "relationship" by eroding trust, creating conflict, or weakening the bonds of affection and respect. These actions gradually diminish the strength and stability of the connection.

What are some alternatives to saying "undermine relationship"?

Alternatives include "damage ties", "weaken bonds", "erode trust", or "strain connections", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "undermine relationship" too informal for academic writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the context. In highly formal academic writing, alternatives like "jeopardize the partnership" or "impair alliance" may be more appropriate.

How does constant criticism "undermine" a "relationship"?

Constant criticism can "undermine" a "relationship" by creating a negative environment, damaging self-esteem, and fostering resentment, which gradually weakens the emotional connection.