Phrasal verb
drift apart
Definition
phrasal verb. to slowly lose a close relationship with someone over time. You use this when you and a friend stop talking or seeing each other as much as you used to.
phrasal verb. to gradually become less intimate or friendly, typically due to a loss of common interests or lack of contact. The verb is intransitive and does not take a direct object.
Examples
“My best friend and I started to drift apart after college.”
“Although they were inseparable in childhood, the two brothers began to drift apart as their career paths diverged.”
“The study examines how long-distance couples often drift apart when they fail to establish shared goals for the future.”
Examples
simple
“My best friend and I started to drift apart after college.”
contextual
“Although they were inseparable in childhood, the two brothers began to drift apart as their career paths diverged.”
complex
“The study examines how long-distance couples often drift apart when they fail to establish shared goals for the future.”
Usage
usually describes the gradual end of a friendship or romantic relationship.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'break up' to show the difference between a sudden, intentional end and a slow, unintentional one.
Pitfall
They drifted apart their friendship.
They drifted apart.
the verb is intransitive and cannot take a direct object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
apart
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
drift + apart
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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