Schism: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe a serious breach or division in an organization, group, or religious body, often with significant consequences.

• The Great Schism divided the Christian Church into Eastern Orthodox and Western Catholic branches.
• There was a schism within the political party that led to its eventual downfall.

Usually refers to a more straightforward or physical division, often temporary or reversible.

• The split in the organization was amicable, with both parts continuing to cooperate.
• They decided to split the bill evenly between all participants.

Used in a more general sense to refer to any separation into parts or groups, not necessarily with negative implications.

• The division of responsibilities among team members improved efficiency.
• The political landscape is marked by a clear division between conservatives and liberals.

Commonly used to describe a serious break in a relationship, often implying emotional or personal conflict.

• A deep rift developed between them after the betrayal.
• There was a rift in the family following the inheritance dispute.

Generally neutral, this term can be used to describe anything from physical distances to personal relationships, often temporary or situational.

• Their separation was only temporary, and they reunited after a few months.
• The separation of church and state is an important principle in many democracies.

Used in serious contexts, often regarding formal disagreements within organized groups, like religions, political parties, or large organizations.

• The Great Schism divided the Christian Church into Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic
• The political party faced a schism over leadership disputes

Informal and versatile, can be used to describe anything from minor disagreements to significant partitions. Often used in everyday language.

• The band split up after their last tour
• There was a split in opinions about the new policy

Can be used in both formal and informal contexts to describe a general state of disagreement or separation. It’s versatile and not as severe as 'schism'.

• The division between the two teams was due to differing strategies
• There was a division in the family over how to handle the inheritance

Generally used in both formal and informal contexts; it can denote physical separation, legal separation, or a state of not being together.

• The separation of church and state is a fundamental principle
• They decided on a trial separation to consider the future of their marriage

Refers to a group or individual breaking away from a larger group, often used in political or social movements, typically when the breakaway portion pursues a new or different direction.

• The breakaway faction of the party formed its own coalition
• The breakaway group decided to start a new community with different ideals