went their separate ways

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "went their separate ways" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where two or more people or groups decide to part ways or pursue different paths, often after a shared experience or relationship. Example: "After years of working together, the partners decided to go their separate ways to explore new opportunities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then they went their separate ways.

The New York Times

They went their separate ways.

The Washington Post

(Foksal Gallery and FGF went their separate ways in 2001).

The New York Times - Arts

They hugged and went their separate ways.

The Guardian

So they went their separate ways.

The New York Times

Vega and Rev went their separate ways.

The Guardian - Music

We'll never know, but eventually they went their separate ways.

The New York Times - Sports

James agreed and the two went their separate ways.

Independent

After high school, they went their separate ways.

The New Yorker

They agreed to disagree, and went their separate ways.

The New York Times

They returned to Boston and went their separate ways.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "went their separate ways" to clearly indicate that individuals or groups have concluded a shared activity or relationship and are now pursuing different paths or goals. Ensure the context makes it clear who is separating and why.

Common error

Avoid using "went their separate ways" if there's a reasonable expectation of future collaboration or reunion. This phrase typically implies a conclusive parting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "went their separate ways" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating a parting or divergence of paths. Examples from Ludwig show its use in describing the end of relationships, partnerships, or collaborations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "went their separate ways" is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to describe a parting or divergence of paths. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's widely used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While several alternatives exist, such as "parted ways" or "went in different directions", "went their separate ways" effectively conveys a sense of finality and independent pursuits. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the conclusive nature of the separation and avoid it if a future reunion is expected.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

parted ways

A more concise and direct alternative, suitable for formal and informal contexts.

went their own way

Similar to the original phrase, but emphasizes individual autonomy and choice.

went in different directions

Focuses on the differing paths taken after the separation, emphasizing the change in course.

diverged

Implies a gradual separation or branching off, often used in a metaphorical sense.

separated

A general term for ceasing to be together, applicable to various types of relationships.

split up

Suggests a more abrupt or decisive separation, often used in the context of relationships or groups.

disbanded

Specifically refers to the dissolution of a group or organization.

called it quits

An informal expression for ending a relationship or endeavor.

dissolved their partnership

Implies a formal termination of a business or collaborative relationship.

agreed to disagree

Emphasizes a divergence in opinion leading to separation, rather than a physical parting.

FAQs

What does "went their separate ways" mean?

It means that people or entities who were once together or shared a common purpose have now parted and are pursuing different paths or goals.

Is it correct to say "went their different ways" instead of "went their separate ways"?

While understandable, "went their "went their different ways"" is less common and idiomatic than "went their separate ways". "Separate" emphasizes the division or parting more clearly.

What are some alternatives to "went their separate ways"?

You could use phrases like "parted ways", "went in different directions", or "split up", depending on the context.

Can "went their separate ways" be used in a formal context?

Yes, "went their separate ways" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, consider alternatives like "dissolved their partnership" or "terminated their agreement" for business or legal settings.