What does “Drive a Wedge Between” mean?
"Drive a Wedge Between" means to create division or conflict between people or groups.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The politician's divisive speech drove a wedge between the two parties.
Example
The gossip drove a wedge between the best friends.
Example
The controversial decision drove a wedge between the employees and management
Is “Drive a Wedge Between” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Drive a Wedge Between” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Drive a Wedge Between” effectively in context?
You can use "Drive a Wedge Between" to describe a situation where someone or something causes division or conflict between people or groups. It emphasizes the idea of creating a barrier or separation between previously united individuals or entities. For example, if two friends have an argument over a misunderstanding, you might say, 'Their disagreement really drove a wedge between them.'
- 1Politics
The politician's divisive speech drove a wedge between the two parties.
- 2Friendship
The gossip drove a wedge between the best friends.
- 3Workplace
The controversial decision drove a wedge between the employees and management.
Similar phrases to “Drive a Wedge Between”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Drive a Wedge Between” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Drive a Wedge Between" is unknown.
Is “Drive a Wedge Between” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Drive a Wedge Between" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where conflicts or disagreements have caused a division between individuals or groups.
What tone does “Drive a Wedge Between” have?
"Drive a Wedge Between" conveys a tone of negativity and conflict. It implies that the action or situation being described has created a rift or separation between people who were previously united.
Can “Drive a Wedge Between” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Drive a Wedge Between" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes the creation of division or conflict. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as discussions, presentations, or written reports.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The rumors drove a wedge between them, and they stopped talking.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He really drove a wedge between us!' to express the impact of someone's actions on a relationship.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
- bridge the gap
- build bridges
- unite
- promote unity
- foster collaboration
- bring together
