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Rift: meaning, definitions and examples

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rift

 

[rɪft ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

geology

A crack, split, or break in something, especially a fault in the earth's crust.

Synonyms

crevice, fissure, split.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rift

Commonly used to describe a serious break or separation between people or groups. Can also refer to gaps in the Earth's crust.

  • There is a growing rift between the two friends.
  • The continental rift has been studied by geologists.
split

Used in both physical and metaphorical senses to denote a division or separation. It can refer to dividing objects, opinions, or groups.

  • She made a split decision to leave the company.
  • The log split in half after one blow from the axe.
fissure

Preferred for scientific or technical contexts when talking about deep or extensive splits or cracks, particularly in geological formations or within the human body.

  • The fissure in the glacier widened over time.
  • Doctors treated the fissure in the patient's colon.
crevice

Describes a narrow crack or opening, especially in rock or hard surfaces. Often implies a smaller and more confined space.

  • He slipped a note into the crevice of the old stone wall.
  • The insect crawled into a crevice in the bark.

Examples of usage

  • The earthquake caused a rift in the ground.
  • The continental drift theory explains how rifts can form.
Context #2 | Noun

relationship

A serious break in friendly relations between individuals, groups, or countries.

Synonyms

disagreement, estrangement, falling out.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rift

Used to describe a serious and often permanent break in a relationship, typically among friends, families, or organizations.

  • The rift between the two brothers grew over the years.
  • A financial dispute caused a rift within the company.
estrangement

Indicates a situation where individuals who were once close no longer communicate or interact, often due to unresolved conflicts or significant differences. Often used for family and close friendships with a more emotional tone.

  • After years of estrangement, she finally reached out to her father.
  • The couple's estrangement was evident at the family gathering.
falling out

Describes a more casual or less formal breakdown in a relationship, usually among friends or acquaintances, that may not be permanent but results in temporary separation or tension.

  • They had a falling out over a misunderstanding about money.
  • After their falling out, they stopped talking to each other for weeks.
disagreement

Refers to a difference in opinion or minor conflict that does not always result in a damaged relationship. It can occur in any setting, including work, family, or social situations.

  • They had a disagreement about the best way to complete the project.
  • A simple disagreement about dinner plans led to an argument.

Examples of usage

  • The argument led to a rift between the two friends.
  • There was a rift in the negotiations, causing a delay in the peace talks.
Context #3 | Verb

relationship

To cause a serious break in friendly relations.

Synonyms

alienate, divide, separate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rift

Used to describe a serious break or division between people or groups, often due to a disagreement or conflict.

  • The argument led to a rift between them that lasted for years.
  • There was a rift within the organization over the new policy changes.
separate

Used when physically moving apart or creating a distinction between things, people, or groups.

  • The teacher separated the students into groups for the activity.
  • They had to separate the recyclable waste from the non-recyclable.
divide

Used to indicate a separation into parts, often referring to opinions, groups, or resources.

  • The issue of climate change continues to divide public opinion.
  • They decided to divide the profits equally among the partners.
alienate

Used when someone feels isolated or estranged, often due to actions or behavior that makes them feel unwanted.

  • His constant criticism began to alienate his friends.
  • The new manager's attitude alienated many employees.

Examples of usage

  • His actions will rift the once strong bond between them.
  • The scandal rifted the community into factions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'rift' comes from the Old Norse word 'rifa', meaning to tear or break.
  • Historically, it has been used in English since the 14th century to describe gaps or splits.
  • Its usage has evolved to include both physical and metaphorical applications, such as in relationships.

Geology

  • In geology, a rift can refer to areas where tectonic plates are pulling apart, often leading to the formation of valleys and new landforms.
  • The East African Rift is a well-known example where the continent is splitting, which may eventually form a new ocean.
  • These geological rifts can trigger earthquakes and volcanic activity due to the movement of the earth's crust.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'rift' is commonly used in movies and literature to describe deep divides between characters or factions.
  • In video gaming, 'Rift' is a popular game that involves exploration and conflict in a fantasy world.
  • The concept of rifts in space and time has been featured in sci-fi shows, highlighting the idea of travel between dimensions.

Psychology

  • In relationships, a rift often describes a significant breakdown in communication or trust, which can lead to long-term issues if unresolved.
  • Rifts in friendships or families can sometimes lead to a period of healing and reflection, prompting personal growth.
  • Therapists often work with individuals to mend rifts, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding.

Literature

  • Rifts are often thematic elements in novels, symbolizing character conflicts, societal divides, or lost connections.
  • Authors like J.K. Rowling have explored rifts in their stories, such as the division between different magical communities.
  • Classic literature frequently portrays rifts as central conflicts that propel the narrative forward, representing internal and external struggles.

Translations

Translations of the word "rift" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fenda

🇮🇳 दरार

🇩🇪 Riss

🇮🇩 retakan

🇺🇦 тріщина

🇵🇱 szczelina

🇯🇵 裂け目 (さけめ)

🇫🇷 fissure

🇪🇸 grieta

🇹🇷 çatlak

🇰🇷 균열

🇸🇦 صدع

🇨🇿 trhlina

🇸🇰 trhlina

🇨🇳 裂缝 (lièfèng)

🇸🇮 razpoka

🇮🇸 rifa

🇰🇿 жарық

🇬🇪 ბზარი

🇦🇿 çat

🇲🇽 grieta

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,784, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.