drive a wedge
The idiom 'drive a wedge' is commonly used to describe actions that cause division or conflict between individuals or groups.
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Definition
B2Interpersonal Relationships
(informal)To cause disagreement or conflict between people, often weakening their relationship.
Example
- Her constant gossiping drove a wedge between the two friends.
C1Social and Political
(informal)To create divisions or disagreements within a group or community, disrupting unity.
Example
- The leader's controversial policies drove a wedge through the community.
C2Military Strategy
(technical)To create a division or weakness in an enemy's territory, facilitating further attack.
Example
- The army's maneuver drove a wedge into the enemy's defenses.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "drive a wedge":