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rift

noun

/rɪft/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of rift

A significant and often irreparable division that occurs between individuals, groups, or entities who were once in harmony or cooperation.
"The rift between the two brothers grew wider after their argument."

Detailed meaning of rift

This term conveys a sense of discord, animosity, or estrangement resulting from profound differences in beliefs, values, interests, or actions. A rift can develop gradually or emerge suddenly, leading to strained communication, decreased trust, and an overall deterioration of the relationship. In personal relationships, it can result from conflicts, betrayals, or fundamental disagreements. In the context of international diplomacy or politics, a rift may arise due to disputes over policies, ideologies, or territorial claims. Mending a rift in such cases often requires diplomatic efforts, reconciliation, or compromise to rebuild trust and restore amicable relations.

Example sentences containing rift

1. The company experienced a rift between management and employees over the new policy.
2. The earthquake created a rift in the ground that was several feet deep.
3. The rift between the two political parties became more pronounced during the election.
4. The couple's relationship suffered from a rift caused by a lack of communication.
5. The band experienced a rift after the lead singer left the group.
6. A deep and irreparable rift had formed between the once-close friends, making reconciliation seem unlikely.

History and etymology of rift

The noun 'rift' has its origins in Middle English, where it was spelled as 'ryft' or 'rifte.' It is closely related to the Old Norse word 'ripta,' meaning 'a breach' or 'a tear.' The term 'rift' essentially refers to a significant and often irreparable division that occurs between individuals, groups, or entities who were once in harmony or cooperation. Its etymology carries the idea of a separation or tearing apart, akin to a physical rift or tear in a fabric. In a metaphorical sense, 'rift' highlights the notion of a deep and wide division that disrupts unity or cooperation, often resulting in discord or estrangement.

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Further usage examples of rift

1. The political rift between the two parties grew wider with time, leading to a stalemate in legislative progress.
2. Their intense rivalry had caused a damaging rift in the community, with neighbors taking sides and relationships strained.
3. The bitter family feud resulted in a painful rift, with family members estranged from one another for years.
4. The toxic rift between coworkers had poisoned the work environment, leading to low morale and high turnover.
5. Despite multiple attempts to mend the rift, the relationship remained strained, and communication had all but ceased.
6. A deep rift separated the two factions within the organization, each fiercely guarding its interests.
7. The rift in their relationship had hurt both parties, leaving them with lingering feelings of sadness and regret.
8. A generational rift in perspectives had emerged, with younger and older employees struggling to understand each other.
9. The protracted financial dispute had caused a rift among business partners, jeopardizing the future of their company.
10. A cultural rift between the two communities had led to misunderstandings and conflicts that needed resolution.
11. Bridging the rift between the opposing sides required compromise and a willingness to find common ground.
12. The persistent rift in the team had hindered progress on the project, leading to missed deadlines and frustration.
13. A personal rift between colleagues had significantly affected work dynamics, making collaboration difficult.
14. The ideological rift between the leaders of the two parties appeared to be irreconcilable, leading to a political deadlock.
15. Over time, the rift between the siblings deepened, and attempts at reconciliation became increasingly challenging.
16. Despite multiple attempts to heal the rift, their differences in values and priorities continued to drive them apart.
17. The emotional rift left scars on their once-close friendship, making it difficult to trust each other again.
18. A deep political rift had divided the nation, with citizens polarized along party lines and unable to find common ground.
19. Repairing the rift that had torn the community apart took time, effort, and a commitment to understanding and forgiveness.
20. The community faced a rift over a proposed development project.
21. The divorce created a rift between the couple's families.
22. The organization experienced a rift between its founders and new leadership.
23. The rift in the mountain range was caused by tectonic plate movement.
24. The siblings' rift over a family inheritance lasted for years.
25. The company's merger caused a rift between long-time employees and new hires.