part ways

Meanings

1. 1phraseidiom

   To separate and go in different directions, ending a shared relationship, partnership, or journey.

   Grammar: Used with a plural subject or with 'with': they parted ways; she parted ways with the company.

   Patterns

   • part ways with someone
   • part ways with something
   • part ways after something

   After ten years together, the two singers decided to part ways.

   The company parted ways with its chief executive last month.

   We parted ways at the station and haven't spoken since.

2. 2phraseidiom

   To stop working or traveling together and each continue separately.

   Grammar: Often used of groups on a journey: the friends part ways at the crossroads.

   Patterns

   • part ways at a place
   • part ways and go home

   The hikers parted ways at the top of the hill.

   Let's part ways here and meet again at six.

Common combinations

part ways with someone

She parted ways with her longtime manager.

decide to part ways

Both sides decided to part ways after the talks failed.

part ways amicably

The partners parted ways amicably.

part ways after years

They parted ways after twenty years of marriage.

Synonyms and how they differ

split up

More informal and often used of couples or bands; 'part ways' sounds a little more neutral and formal.

separate

A general verb for coming apart; 'part ways' specifically suggests each person going their own direction.

break up

Common for romantic relationships; it can sound more emotional than 'part ways'.

Opposites

Word family

parting noun

The act of leaving or separating from someone.

part verb

To separate or go away from someone.

Commonly confused: part ways or part company?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “part ways”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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