Top 44 Slang For Divorce – Meaning & Usage

Divorce, a term that carries a mix of emotions and life changes, has its own set of slang and colloquialisms. Curious to know what these slang terms are? Whether you’re going through a divorce yourself or just interested in the language surrounding this topic, we’ve got you covered. Our team has compiled a list of the top slang for divorce that will give you a glimpse into the unique vocabulary used when discussing the end of a marriage. Get ready to expand your knowledge and maybe even have a few laughs along the way!

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Split

This term refers to the act of ending a marriage or relationship. It implies a division or separation between two people who were previously together.

For example, “They decided to split after years of unhappiness.”
A friend might ask, “Did you hear they split up last week?”
During a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “Sometimes it’s better to split and find happiness elsewhere.”

2. Break up

This slang term is commonly used to describe the act of ending a romantic relationship. It can also be used to refer to the dissolution of a marriage.

For instance, “They finally decided to break up after months of fighting.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe they broke up. They seemed so happy together.”
During a discussion about relationships, someone might ask, “Have you ever gone through a break-up?”

3. Call it quits

This phrase is used to describe the decision to end a relationship or marriage. It suggests a mutual agreement between both parties to stop being together.

For example, “They called it quits after realizing they had different goals.”
A friend might say, “They finally called it quits. It was a long time coming.”
During a conversation about relationships, someone might mention, “Sometimes it’s best to call it quits when things aren’t working out.”

4. Go separate ways

This slang phrase means to end a relationship or marriage and move forward in separate directions. It implies a decision to go on separate paths in life.

For instance, “They decided to go separate ways after realizing they wanted different things.”
A person might say, “It’s sad, but sometimes couples have to go their separate ways.”
During a discussion about relationships, someone might comment, “When a relationship isn’t working anymore, it’s better to go your separate ways.”

5. Part ways

This phrase is used to describe the act of ending a relationship or marriage and going in different directions. It suggests a mutual agreement to part and move on.

For example, “They decided to part ways after years of growing apart.”
A friend might mention, “They finally decided to part ways. It’s for the best.”
During a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “Sometimes couples just need to part ways and find happiness elsewhere.”

6. Dissolve the marriage

This phrase refers to the legal process of terminating a marriage. It emphasizes the formal and legal aspect of divorce.

For example, in a conversation about a couple’s separation, someone might say, “They decided to dissolve their marriage after years of unhappiness.”
In a legal context, a lawyer might advise their client, “We will file the necessary paperwork to dissolve the marriage.”
A person discussing their divorce might explain, “We went through mediation to dissolve our marriage amicably.”

7. Cut ties

This slang phrase implies ending all contact and communication with a former spouse. It emphasizes the need to completely sever any emotional or practical ties.

For instance, a person might say, “After the divorce, I had to cut ties with my ex for my own well-being.”
In a discussion about moving on from a divorce, someone might advise, “It’s important to cut ties with your ex and focus on your own healing.”
A person reflecting on their divorce might say, “Cutting ties was difficult, but it was necessary for me to move forward.”

8. Untie the knot

This phrase metaphorically compares the marriage to a knot that needs to be untied. It suggests the need to separate and undo the bond between two individuals.

For example, a person might say, “They decided to untie the knot and go their separate ways.”
In a discussion about divorce, someone might ask, “Have you untied the knot yet or are you still considering reconciliation?”
A person reflecting on their divorce might share, “Untying the knot was a painful process, but it was necessary for both of us to find happiness.”

9. Throw in the towel

This slang phrase implies surrendering or admitting defeat in a marriage. It suggests that the couple has reached a point where they no longer see a viable solution or future together.

For instance, a person might say, “After years of trying to make it work, they finally threw in the towel.”
In a conversation about a couple’s separation, someone might ask, “Did they throw in the towel or are they still trying to work things out?”
A person reflecting on their divorce might explain, “Throwing in the towel was a difficult decision, but it was the right choice for both of us.”

10. Walk away

This phrase suggests leaving a marriage without attempting to salvage it or work through the issues. It emphasizes the act of physically and emotionally removing oneself from the relationship.

For example, a person might say, “She couldn’t handle the toxicity anymore, so she decided to walk away.”
In a discussion about divorce, someone might ask, “Did they try counseling or did they just walk away without trying to work things out?”
A person reflecting on their divorce might share, “Walking away was a difficult decision, but it was necessary for my own well-being.”

11. Split up

This phrase is often used to describe the act of ending a romantic relationship. It implies that the couple has decided to separate and go their separate ways.

For example, a friend might say, “I heard they split up last week.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might ask, “Have you ever split up with someone before?”
A person reflecting on their past might say, “I’m glad we split up, we weren’t right for each other.”

12. Go through a separation

This phrase is used to describe the process of living apart from one’s spouse or partner. It implies that the couple is no longer living together but may not have finalized their divorce.

For instance, someone might say, “They’re going through a separation right now.”
In a discussion about relationships, a person might ask, “Have you ever gone through a separation?”
A friend might offer support by saying, “I’m here for you while you go through your separation.”

13. Go through a breakup

This phrase is used to describe the experience of ending a romantic relationship. It implies that the couple has decided to end their relationship and go their separate ways.

For example, a person might say, “I just went through a breakup, it’s been tough.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might ask, “How did you handle going through a breakup?”
A friend might offer advice by saying, “Take your time to heal after going through a breakup.”

14. Go through a split

This phrase is used to describe the experience of ending a relationship. It implies that the couple has decided to separate and go their separate ways.

For instance, a person might say, “They went through a split after years of marriage.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might ask, “What was it like to go through a split?”
A friend might offer support by saying, “I’m here for you as you go through your split.”

15. Get a divorce

This phrase is used to describe the process of legally ending a marriage. It implies that the couple has decided to formally dissolve their marriage through the legal system.

For example, a person might say, “They finally got a divorce after years of unhappiness.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might ask, “Have you ever considered getting a divorce?”
A friend might offer support by saying, “Getting a divorce is never easy, but you’ll get through it.”

16. Call it a day

This phrase is often used to indicate that a couple has decided to end their marriage or relationship. It implies that both parties have come to a mutual agreement to separate.

For example, “After years of struggling, they finally decided to call it a day and file for divorce.”
In a conversation about a failing relationship, someone might say, “I think it’s time for us to call it a day and move on.”
A friend might offer support by saying, “If you’re unhappy, it might be best to call it a day and find happiness elsewhere.”

17. Cut the cord

This phrase is often used to describe the act of ending a marriage or relationship. It suggests a clean break and the severing of emotional ties.

For instance, “After years of unhappiness, they finally decided to cut the cord and get divorced.”
In a discussion about relationship struggles, someone might say, “Sometimes you just have to cut the cord and move on for the sake of your own happiness.”
A person going through a divorce might say, “Cutting the cord was difficult, but it was necessary for both of us to find peace.”

18. End the marriage

This phrase straightforwardly refers to the act of terminating a legal marriage. It suggests a formal process of legally dissolving the union.

For example, “They both agreed it was time to end the marriage and pursue separate lives.”
In a conversation about divorce, someone might ask, “Have you considered ending the marriage through mediation or litigation?”
A divorce attorney might explain, “Ending the marriage involves filing legal documents and going through the court process.”

19. Say goodbye

This phrase is often used to describe the act of separating or divorcing. It implies a final farewell and the end of a relationship.

For instance, “After years of struggling, they decided it was time to say goodbye and go their separate ways.”
In a conversation about relationship troubles, someone might say, “Sometimes it’s best to say goodbye and move on to find happiness.”
A friend might offer support by saying, “Saying goodbye is never easy, but it’s necessary for both of you to find happiness.”

20. Separate

This word can refer to the act of living apart from one’s spouse or legally ending a marriage. It suggests a physical and/or emotional distance between partners.

For example, “They decided to separate and live in different homes while they figured out their next steps.”
In a discussion about relationship struggles, someone might say, “If things don’t improve, it might be best to separate and reassess the relationship.”
A therapist might suggest, “Taking some time apart and separating might give you both the space you need to work on your individual issues.”

21. Break it off

This phrase is often used to describe the act of ending a romantic relationship. It implies a sudden or abrupt termination of the relationship.

For example, “After months of fighting, they decided to break it off.”
A friend might advise, “If you’re unhappy, it might be time to break it off.”
In a conversation about failed relationships, someone might say, “I’ve had to break it off with a few people in my life.”

22. Go your own way

This phrase suggests that both individuals in a relationship should pursue their own interests and goals instead of staying together.

For instance, “They realized they wanted different things in life and decided to go their own way.”
A person might say, “I’ve learned that it’s important to go your own way and not rely on someone else for happiness.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might encourage, “Don’t be afraid to go your own way and follow your dreams.”

23. Sever ties

This phrase indicates the deliberate act of ending all contact and connection with someone, often used in the context of a relationship or partnership.

For example, “After the divorce, they decided to sever ties completely.”
A person might say, “It’s important to sever ties with toxic people in your life.”
In a conversation about moving on, someone might advise, “If you want to heal, you need to sever ties and create distance.”

24. Go your separate ways

This phrase suggests that both individuals in a relationship should pursue their own paths and live separate lives instead of staying together.

For instance, “They realized they had grown apart and decided to go their separate ways.”
A person might say, “Sometimes the best decision is to go your separate ways and find happiness on your own.”
In a discussion about life changes, someone might share, “After college, my friends and I went our separate ways and started our own careers.”

25. Part company

This phrase is often used to describe the act of ending a relationship, indicating that both individuals involved are going their separate ways.

For example, “After years of marriage, they finally decided to part company.”
A person might say, “Sometimes the best thing you can do is part company and find happiness elsewhere.”
In a conversation about failed relationships, someone might share, “We tried to make it work, but in the end, we had to part company.”

26. Terminate the marriage

This phrase is a more formal way of saying “divorce” and indicates the legal dissolution of a marriage.

For example, “After years of struggling, they decided to terminate the marriage and go their separate ways.”
In a legal context, a lawyer might say, “We are filing the necessary paperwork to terminate the marriage.”
When discussing relationship issues, someone might say, “If the problems can’t be resolved, it might be best to terminate the marriage.”

27. Go your separate paths

This phrase suggests that the couple is choosing to separate and pursue different paths in life.

For instance, “After years of being together, they realized it was time to go their separate paths.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “Sometimes it’s better to go your separate paths than stay in an unhappy marriage.”
When discussing the decision to divorce, a person might say, “We’ve tried everything, but it’s time to go our separate paths.”

28. Break the bond

This phrase implies breaking the emotional bond between a married couple, often leading to divorce.

For example, “They tried counseling, but ultimately, they had to break the bond and move on.”
In a discussion about the challenges of marriage, someone might say, “Sometimes it’s necessary to break the bond in order to find happiness.”
When explaining the decision to divorce, a person might say, “We realized we couldn’t fix our problems, so we had to break the bond.”

29. Split the sheets

This phrase is a euphemism for divorce, specifically referring to the act of physically separating and ending the marital relationship.

For instance, “After years of unhappiness, they decided to split the sheets and start fresh.”
In a conversation about relationship difficulties, someone might say, “If things don’t improve, it might be time to split the sheets.”
When discussing the decision to divorce, a person might say, “We realized we couldn’t continue living together, so we decided to split the sheets.”

30. End the union

This phrase refers to the act of legally ending a marriage and signifies the termination of the union between two people.

For example, “They reached a point where they had to end the union and move on with their lives.”
In a discussion about marriage and divorce, someone might say, “Ending the union is never easy, but sometimes it’s necessary.”
When explaining the decision to divorce, a person might say, “We realized we were no longer happy together and needed to end the union.”

31. Breakup

This term is commonly used to describe the end of a romantic relationship. It can refer to the termination of both casual and serious relationships.

For example, someone might say, “They had a messy breakup and haven’t spoken since.”
A friend might offer support by saying, “I’m sorry to hear about your breakup. Are you okay?”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might mention, “Breakups can be difficult, but they can also lead to personal growth.”

32. Ditch

This slang term is used to describe the act of abruptly leaving or abandoning a relationship or marriage.

For instance, someone might say, “He ditched his wife and moved to a different country.”
In a discussion about relationship problems, someone might say, “If things don’t improve, I might have to ditch this marriage.”
A person sharing their experience might say, “I finally had the courage to ditch my toxic relationship and start fresh.”

33. Dissolve

This term is often used to describe the legal ending of a marriage or partnership.

For example, someone might say, “They decided to dissolve their marriage due to irreconcilable differences.”
In a conversation about divorce, someone might ask, “How long does it take to dissolve a marriage?”
A lawyer specializing in family law might explain, “Dissolving a marriage involves various legal processes and considerations.”

34. Divorce

This is a legal process that formally ends a marriage or partnership. It involves obtaining a court order to terminate the marital union and resolve related issues such as child custody, spousal support, and division of assets.

For instance, someone might say, “They filed for divorce after years of marital problems.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might mention, “Divorce rates have been steadily increasing.”
A person sharing their experience might say, “Going through a divorce was a challenging and emotional process.”

35. Unhitch

This slang term is used to describe the act of separating or ending a marriage or relationship.

For example, someone might say, “They decided to unhitch after realizing they had different life goals.”
In a conversation about relationship struggles, someone might say, “Sometimes it’s necessary to unhitch for the sake of personal happiness.”
A friend offering support might say, “If you’re unhappy, it might be time to unhitch and find your own path.”

36. Bail out

This slang term refers to the act of ending a relationship or marriage, often abruptly or without warning. It implies a sense of escaping or leaving a difficult or undesirable situation.

For example, someone might say, “I had to bail out of my toxic marriage for the sake of my mental health.”
In a conversation about relationships, a person might mention, “Sometimes you just have to bail out if things aren’t working.”
A friend might offer advice, saying, “If you’re unhappy, it might be time to bail out and find something better.”

37. Cut loose

To “cut loose” means to end a relationship or marriage, typically with a sense of finality or decisiveness. It implies letting go of something that was holding you back or causing unhappiness.

For instance, someone might say, “I finally cut loose from my toxic ex and it was the best decision I ever made.”
In a discussion about relationships, a person might share, “Sometimes you have to cut loose to find true happiness.”
A friend might support the decision to end a relationship, saying, “It’s time for you to cut loose and start fresh.”

38. Sever

To “sever” a relationship or marriage means to cut or break the ties that bind it. It implies a sense of finality and often carries a connotation of a clean break or complete separation.

For example, someone might say, “After years of unhappiness, I decided to sever ties with my spouse.”
In a conversation about relationships, a person might mention, “Sometimes you have to sever the connection to find true happiness.”
A friend might offer support, saying, “It’s never easy to sever a relationship, but sometimes it’s necessary for your own well-being.”

39. Disentangle

To “disentangle” a relationship or marriage means to untangle or separate oneself from it. It implies a sense of freeing oneself from a complicated or difficult situation.

For instance, someone might say, “I needed to disentangle myself from my toxic marriage in order to find happiness.”
In a discussion about relationships, a person might share, “It’s important to disentangle yourself from a toxic relationship for your own well-being.”
A friend might offer advice, saying, “Take the necessary steps to disentangle yourself from a relationship that is causing you pain.”

40. Pull the plug

To “pull the plug” means to abruptly end a relationship or marriage. The phrase often carries a connotation of finality and can imply a sudden or unexpected ending.

For example, someone might say, “I finally had to pull the plug on my failing marriage.”
In a conversation about relationships, a person might mention, “Sometimes you just have to pull the plug and move on.”
A friend might offer support, saying, “It’s never easy to pull the plug, but sometimes it’s necessary for your own happiness.”

41. Throw in the sponge

This phrase refers to the act of surrendering or admitting defeat in a divorce. It implies that one party has decided to stop fighting for the marriage and is ready to move on.

For example, “After years of trying to make it work, he finally threw in the sponge and filed for divorce.”
In a conversation about a difficult divorce, someone might say, “She realized it was time to throw in the sponge and focus on her own happiness.”
A friend might offer support by saying, “It takes courage to throw in the sponge and start over, but sometimes it’s the best decision.”

42. Go solo

This phrase means to end a marriage and continue life independently, without a spouse. It suggests that one party has chosen to navigate life on their own, without the support or partnership of a spouse.

For instance, “After years of unhappiness, she finally decided to go solo and filed for divorce.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “Sometimes it’s better to go solo than to stay in a toxic marriage.”
A person reflecting on their divorce might say, “Going solo was scary at first, but it allowed me to discover my own strength and happiness.”

43. End it

This phrase simply means to bring a marriage to an end. It implies that one or both parties have reached a point where they no longer want to be married and have decided to separate.

For example, “They realized they were no longer compatible and decided to end it.”
In a conversation about divorce, someone might say, “Ending it was the hardest decision I’ve ever made, but it was necessary for my own well-being.”
A friend might offer support by saying, “Ending a marriage is never easy, but sometimes it’s the best choice for both parties.”

44. Break the ties

This phrase means to sever the legal and emotional ties between two spouses. It suggests that one or both parties have decided to end the marriage and move forward as separate individuals.

For instance, “They knew they had to break the ties and start fresh.”
In a discussion about divorce, someone might say, “Breaking the ties was a difficult process, but it allowed me to reclaim my independence.”
A person reflecting on their divorce might say, “Breaking the ties was the first step towards finding happiness and healing.”