Noun Phrase
/ðə ʃɪp splɪt/
"The ship split" refers to an event where a ship undergoes a physical separation, often due to damage or structural failure. This phrase can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. For example, it can describe an actual maritime accident where a ship breaks apart, or it can be used metaphorically to describe a situation in which a group or organization is divided.
Frequency of Use: The phrase is not commonly used in everyday conversation but may appear in specific contexts related to maritime discussions or literary works. It is more likely to be found in written contexts, such as reports, novels, or historical accounts.
Oral vs. Written Context: This phrase is typically more common in written contexts than in everyday oral speech.
El barco se partió durante la tormenta, dejando a la tripulación varada en balsas separadas.
After the captain noticed a crack in the hull, he feared that the ship might split in two.
Después de que el capitán notó una grieta en el casco, temía que el barco pudiera partirse en dos.
In the documentary, we saw footage of the ship split, with dramatic scenes of chaos.
While "the ship split" itself does not have a wide range of idiomatic expressions, the term "split" can appear in various idiomatic contexts.
(When we were discussing the price, we decided to split the difference and agree on a middle figure.)
"Split hairs"
(We don’t need to split hairs over the minor details of the project.)
"All split up"
(The meeting ended with everyone split up into opposing groups.)
"Split into two"
(The group split into two after the discussion.)
"No split decision"
The word "split" originates from the Old English "splītan," which means to break or tear apart. It has cognates in other Germanic languages, reflecting its meaning of division or separation. The use of "ship" comes from the Old English "scip," meaning a vessel.
Synonyms: - Divide - Separate - Break apart
Antonyms: - Unite - Join - Combine