ENGLISH
REFERENCE

parting of the ways

idiom
Meaning

a separation of two things or people because of a disagreement, a point of divergence, especially an important one


Examples
SIMPLE

We had a disagreement and reached a parting of the ways.

CONTEXTUAL

After years of working together, the business partners reached a parting of the ways due to their different visions for the company.

COMPLEX

Following a fundamental shift in their core values, the two long-term allies reached a definitive parting of the ways, effectively ending their political partnership.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    cut both ways

    To have both benefits and drawbacks.

  2. 02

    go their separate ways

    Of two or more people, to cease travelling or spending time together; to depart with different destinations.

  3. 03

    have it both ways

    Synonym of have one's cake and eat it too.

  4. 04

    mend one's ways

    To recognise one's failings and attempt to remedy them.

  5. 05

    no two ways about it

    No other possible action, choice or option.

  6. 06

    no ways

    Synonym of no way (“absolutely not”).

  7. 07

    parting shot

    An insult or barbed comment issued as the speaker departs or the conversation comes to an end.

  8. 08

    set in one's ways

    Driven by habit; inclined or determined to continue according to one's custom or established preferences.

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