Definition

Noun: 1. A disagreement or quarrel that damages a relationship: A "falling out" is a serious argument or conflict between people (often friends, family members, or allies) that leads to a period of estrangement or a damaged relationship. It implies a break in harmony or friendly association.

Usage

"Falling out" is used to describe the event or process of a relationship breaking down due to a conflict. It is most commonly used with the verbs "have" or "have a." * It is often followed by "with" + [person/group] to specify the other party involved. * It can also be followed by "over" + [issue] to specify the cause of the disagreement.

Examples

• The two business partners had a falling out over financial decisions and dissolved their company.
• After their falling out, the sisters didn't speak to each other for years.
• He had a falling out with his best friend after the incident at the party.
• The political falling out between the two leaders was reported in all the newspapers.

Advanced Usage

• "to patch up a falling out": To repair a relationship after a quarrel.
  • It took them months to patch up their falling out.
• "a bitter falling out": Emphasizes a particularly angry and resentful disagreement.
  • The divorce was preceded by a bitter falling out.

Variants and Related Words

• Fall out (phrasal verb): The action from which the noun is derived.
  • They fell out over a misunderstanding.
• Fallout (noun): While related, this is a distinct word. It primarily refers to the radioactive particles that fall after a nuclear explosion, or by extension, the unpleasant secondary effects of an event.
  • The political scandal had serious fallout for the entire administration. (Here, "fallout" refers to the consequences, not the argument itself).

Synonyms

• Quarrel: A more general term for an angry argument.
• Disagreement: A milder term for a difference of opinion.
• Rift: A serious break in friendly relations.
• Estrangement: A state of being alienated or separated.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Fall out (with someone): To have a disagreement that harms a relationship.
  • I don't want to fall out with you over this.

Noun

1. a personal or social separation (as between opposing factions)
   • they hoped to avoid a break in relations