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rift

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /rɪft/

KK: /rɪft/

intransitive verb
Definition

To break apart or separate into two or more pieces.


Example

The earthquake caused the ground to rift, creating a large crack.


Tense Forms

Past: rifted

Past Participle: rifted


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the big storm last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was so intense! I saw a tree rift right in half.
Sloth A
Wow, that's crazy! I hope everyone is okay.
Sloth B
I know, right? Nature can be really unpredictable.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
split
break
cleave
Antonyms
unite
join
merge
noun
Definition

A rift is a break or separation in a relationship, often causing disagreement or conflict. It can also refer to a narrow opening or crack in a surface, like rock.


Example

The argument created a rift between the two friends that took a long time to heal.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you noticed the rift between Alex and Jamie lately?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's really sad to see them not getting along.
Sloth A
I wonder if they can ever fix that rift between them.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To cause something to split or break apart.


Example

The earthquake rifted the ground, creating a large crack.


Tense Forms

Past: rifted

Past Participle: rifted


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard that argument really rifted their friendship apart.
Sloth B
Yeah, it's sad to see them like that.
Sloth A
I didn't think it would rift them so deeply, honestly.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Rift originates from Old Norse 'rifta', meaning to tear or split. The word describes a break or gap, often in a physical or metaphorical sense.

Memory Tip

Think of a tear or split in something — that's what a rift means.

Visually Confused Words
grift
drift
rit
thrift
shrift
resift
relift
regift
Is this page helpful?
I hope so; they used to be best friends.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
gap
split
fissure
Antonyms
unity
harmony
connection
Me neither, but sometimes things just can't be fixed.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
split
break
cleave
Antonyms
unite
join
merge