B1 Noun (plural) / Verb (3rd person singular) #34 más común 9 min de lectura

divorces

The plural form of the legal dissolution of a marriage by a court or other competent body. It can also refer to the third-person singular present tense of the verb meaning to legally end a marriage or to separate two things completely.

At the A1 level, you might not use the word 'divorces' very often, but it is good to know. It comes from the word 'divorce.' A 'divorce' is when a husband and wife decide they do not want to be married anymore. They go to a court to make it official. When we say 'divorces' with an 's' at the end, it can mean two things. First, it can mean more than one divorce. For example, 'There are many divorces in that city.' This means many couples are ending their marriages. Second, it can be an action word (a verb) for one person. We say 'He divorces' or 'She divorces.' For example, 'He divorces his wife.' This means he is ending the marriage now. It is a very serious word because it is about families changing. You might hear it in movies or stories about families. Remember, 'divorce' is the main word, and 'divorces' is just a different form of it. You use 'divorces' when you talk about more than one or when you talk about what one person does. It is important to be kind when using this word because it can be a sad topic for some people. Practice saying it slowly: di-vor-ces. The 's' at the end sounds like a 'z' sound. Even if you don't use it in your own speaking yet, knowing what it means will help you understand stories about people's lives.
At the A2 level, you are starting to talk more about people's lives and social situations. The word 'divorces' is useful here. As a noun, 'divorces' refers to multiple instances of marriage endings. You might see this in a news article about how families are changing. For example, 'Divorces are more common now than fifty years ago.' This helps you describe a general trend in society. As a verb, 'divorces' is used with 'he,' 'she,' or 'it.' For example, 'She divorces her husband after a long argument.' In this level, you should also learn that 'divorces' can be used to talk about things that are not people. For example, 'The new law divorces the school from the church.' This means the law makes them separate. This is a more advanced way to use the word, but it is very common in English. You should also know some words that go with it, like 'messy divorces' (when people fight a lot) or 'quick divorces.' When you use it as a verb, remember the 's' at the end for singular subjects. 'They divorce' (no 's') but 'He divorces' (with 's'). This is a common grammar rule you are practicing at A2. Understanding 'divorces' helps you talk about family history and news events more clearly.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'divorces' in both its literal and figurative senses. As a plural noun, 'divorces' often appears in discussions about sociology, law, or personal history. You might discuss the 'impact of divorces on children' or the 'legal costs associated with divorces.' This shows you can handle more complex topics. As a verb, 'divorces' is frequently used to describe a person's actions in the third person singular. For example, 'When a person divorces, they often have to divide their property.' More importantly, at B1, you should start using 'divorces' metaphorically. It is a powerful way to describe a complete separation of ideas or entities. For instance, 'The author divorces the plot from the historical setting,' meaning the story doesn't rely on the history. This level of usage makes your English sound more natural and sophisticated. You should also be aware of the emotional weight of the word. In many cultures, 'divorces' are sensitive topics, so using the word in a neutral, factual way is an important skill. You might also encounter the phrase 'no-fault divorces,' which is a specific legal term. Being able to explain what 'divorces' are and how they affect people is a great way to show your intermediate language skills.
At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'divorces' with precision and in more formal contexts. You will likely encounter the word in academic texts, legal discussions, or complex literature. As a noun, 'divorces' is used to analyze statistical data or social phenomena. You might write an essay about 'the correlation between economic stress and the frequency of divorces.' Here, the word is used to categorize a specific type of legal and social event. As a verb, 'divorces' is often used in the 'third-person singular' to describe a process or a person's decision. For example, 'The judge divorces the couple after reviewing the evidence.' However, at B2, the metaphorical use becomes even more important. You might hear it in a political context: 'The candidate's rhetoric divorces itself from the actual policy proposals.' This implies a disconnect or a lack of integrity. You should also be familiar with the nuances between 'divorces' and related terms like 'dissolutions' or 'annulments.' Understanding these distinctions shows a high level of vocabulary control. Additionally, you should be able to use the word in various sentence structures, including passive forms like 'He is divorced' or complex clauses like 'The frequency with which he divorces suggests a pattern of instability.' Your ability to use 'divorces' to describe both personal life and abstract concepts is a hallmark of the B2 level.
At the C1 level, your use of 'divorces' should be nuanced and contextually appropriate. You understand that 'divorces' is not just about the end of a marriage but can represent a profound structural or conceptual break. In academic or professional writing, you might use 'divorces' to describe the decoupling of economic variables or the separation of powers within a government. For example, 'The new constitutional amendment effectively divorces the executive branch from the judicial oversight.' This demonstrates an advanced grasp of metaphorical language. You are also aware of the historical and cultural connotations of the word. You might discuss how 'the stigma surrounding divorces has diminished in Western societies over the last century.' This requires a deep understanding of social history. Furthermore, you can use 'divorces' in complex idiomatic expressions or to create sophisticated rhetorical effects. For instance, 'He divorces himself from the very principles he once championed,' which highlights a character's hypocrisy or change of heart. At this level, you also recognize the subtle differences in tone; 'divorces' can sound clinical in a legal report or deeply personal in a memoir. You should be able to navigate these registers seamlessly. Your mastery of the word allows you to discuss complex human emotions and abstract systemic changes with equal clarity and depth.
At the C2 level, you have a complete and effortless command of the word 'divorces.' You use it with total precision, whether you are discussing the intricacies of family law, the statistical analysis of demographic trends, or the most abstract philosophical concepts. You might use 'divorces' to describe the ontological separation of mind and body in a philosophical treatise: 'Descartes effectively divorces the res cogitans from the res extensa.' This shows an ability to apply the word to the highest levels of intellectual discourse. You are also sensitive to the word's placement and rhythm within a sentence, using it to create specific stylistic effects. In a literary critique, you might write about how a 'poet divorces language from its traditional meanings to create a new aesthetic experience.' Your understanding of the word includes its etymological roots and how its usage has evolved over centuries. You can engage in high-level debates about the 'socio-economic drivers of divorces' or the 'legal ramifications of international divorces' with ease. At C2, 'divorces' is a versatile tool in your linguistic arsenal, used to convey sharp distinctions, total separations, and the complex reality of human relationships and systems. You can use it to express irony, emphasis, or clinical detachment as the situation requires, demonstrating a native-like or even superior level of fluency.

divorces en 30 segundos

  • Divorces refers to the legal ending of marriages (plural noun) or the act of one person ending a marriage (singular verb).
  • It is commonly used in legal, social, and personal contexts to describe the formal separation of a couple.
  • Metaphorically, it describes the complete disconnection between two ideas, entities, or concepts, often using the preposition 'from'.
  • Correct usage requires attention to subject-verb agreement and understanding the difference between a physical separation and a legal divorce.

The word divorces serves a dual purpose in the English language, acting both as a plural noun and a third-person singular verb. In its primary noun form, it refers to the legal dissolutions of marriage contracts, a process that terminates the marital union and reorganizes the legal duties and responsibilities of the parties involved. In its verb form, it describes the action of a person legally ending their marriage or, more abstractly, the act of separating two things that were once closely connected. Understanding the context is crucial because the word carries significant emotional, legal, and social weight. When we speak of 'divorces' in the plural, we are often discussing statistical trends, societal shifts, or multiple instances of marital dissolution within a community or family history. As a verb, 'he divorces' or 'she divorces' highlights the agency of an individual taking a definitive step to alter their life path. Beyond the legal courtroom, the term is frequently employed metaphorically. For instance, a politician might be said to 'divorce' their platform from their personal beliefs, or a company might 'divorce' its luxury brand from its budget line to protect its prestige. This versatility makes 'divorces' a vital term for discussing everything from intimate personal relationships to complex geopolitical strategies.

Legal Context
The formal process of ending a marriage through a court system, often involving the division of assets and custody arrangements.
Metaphorical Separation
The act of completely disconnecting one idea, entity, or object from another to ensure there is no overlap or influence.
Statistical Usage
Used to quantify the frequency of marital endings within a specific population or timeframe.

The rising number of divorces in the city reflects a shift in social values regarding lifelong commitment.

He divorces his professional life from his personal interests to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Many high-profile divorces are settled out of court to avoid public scrutiny and media attention.

She divorces herself from the drama of the office by focusing strictly on her technical tasks.

The historical records show that divorces were exceptionally rare and socially stigmatized in the 19th century.

Using 'divorces' correctly requires a clear understanding of its grammatical function within the sentence. As a plural noun, it usually follows an adjective or a quantifier, such as 'many divorces,' 'painful divorces,' or 'contested divorces.' In these instances, it functions as the subject or object of the sentence. For example, 'Several divorces occurred within the same social circle last year.' Here, 'divorces' is the subject performing the action of occurring. As a third-person singular verb, 'divorces' follows a singular subject like 'he,' 'she,' 'it,' or a specific name. It is often followed by the preposition 'from' when used in a metaphorical sense. For instance, 'The artist divorces his work from commercial expectations.' This structure emphasizes the separation between the subject and the object. It is also important to note the pronunciation difference in some dialects, though generally, both the noun and verb are pronounced the same. When writing, ensure that the subject-verb agreement is maintained; 'they divorce' (plural verb) versus 'he divorces' (singular verb). In formal writing, 'divorces' is often used to discuss legal precedents or statistical data, whereas in informal conversation, it might appear when discussing personal gossip or life changes. The word can also be part of compound phrases like 'no-fault divorces' or 'messy divorces,' which add descriptive depth to the noun.

Subject-Verb Agreement
Always use 'divorces' with singular subjects like 'he', 'she', or 'the company'. Example: 'The law divorces the two issues.'
Plural Noun Usage
Use 'divorces' when referring to more than one legal separation. Example: 'The lawyer handled three divorces this week.'
Prepositional Patterns
Commonly paired with 'from' to indicate what is being separated. Example: 'She divorces her emotions from her logic.'

The judge oversees dozens of divorces every single month in this jurisdiction.

He divorces himself from the responsibility of the project after the initial phase.

The documentary explores how celebrity divorces impact the public perception of marriage.

In daily life, 'divorces' is a word that appears in various contexts, ranging from the highly personal to the strictly professional. You will frequently encounter it in news reports, especially when journalists discuss demographic changes or the personal lives of public figures. For example, a news anchor might report on 'the increasing rate of divorces among the elderly,' a phenomenon often referred to as 'gray divorce.' In legal settings, attorneys and judges use the word constantly to categorize their caseloads. You might hear a legal clerk mention that 'the court is processing five divorces today.' In the realm of entertainment, celebrity gossip magazines and websites are filled with headlines about 'shocking divorces' and 'expensive divorces,' often focusing on the financial settlements and custody battles. Beyond these literal uses, you will hear 'divorces' used in intellectual and political discourse. A political analyst might argue that a candidate 'divorces' their rhetoric from reality, suggesting a lack of honesty or connection to facts. In a business meeting, a manager might say that the company 'divorces' its research department from its sales team to ensure unbiased innovation. Even in casual conversation, friends might discuss the 'divorces' of mutual acquaintances, though this is often done with a degree of sensitivity. The word is also a staple in psychological and sociological studies, where researchers examine the long-term effects of 'divorces' on children and family structures. Whether in a courtroom, a newsroom, or a living room, 'divorces' is a term that signals a significant transition or a sharp boundary.

News & Media
Reporting on societal trends, celebrity news, and legal changes affecting family law.
Professional Discourse
Used in business and politics to describe the separation of departments, ideas, or policies.
Academic Research
Sociological and psychological studies focusing on family dynamics and demographic shifts.

The evening news featured a segment on why divorces are becoming more common in later life.

In the debate, the critic claimed the senator divorces his policy from the needs of his constituents.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 'divorces' is confusing its noun and verb forms, particularly regarding subject-verb agreement. For example, saying 'They divorces' is incorrect; it should be 'They divorce' (plural subject, plural verb) or 'He divorces' (singular subject, singular verb). Another frequent error involves the use of prepositions. While 'divorces from' is common in metaphorical contexts, it is not used when describing the legal act of ending a marriage between two people. You wouldn't say 'He divorces from his wife'; instead, you say 'He divorces his wife' or 'He is getting a divorce from his wife.' In the latter, 'divorce' is a noun. Misspelling is also a minor issue, with some people forgetting the 's' at the end when they intend the plural or third-person singular form. Additionally, learners sometimes use 'divorces' when they actually mean 'separations.' While related, a separation is often a temporary or less formal arrangement, whereas 'divorces' refers specifically to the final, legal termination of the marriage. Using the word in the wrong register can also be a mistake. For instance, using 'divorces' in a very casual way to describe a minor disagreement between friends might come across as overly dramatic or confusing. Finally, ensure that when using 'divorces' as a noun, you are actually referring to multiple instances. If you are talking about one person's single legal process, use the singular 'divorce.'

Subject-Verb Mismatch
Using 'divorces' with plural subjects like 'we' or 'they'. Correct: 'They divorce.'
Preposition Overuse
Adding 'from' when using the verb to describe ending a marriage. Correct: 'She divorces him.'
Confusing Noun/Verb
Using the plural noun when only one instance is meant. Correct: 'Their divorce was final.'

Incorrect: They divorces after ten years. Correct: They divorce after ten years.

Incorrect: He divorces from his partner. Correct: He divorces his partner.

When looking for alternatives to 'divorces,' it is important to choose a word that matches the specific context—whether legal, emotional, or metaphorical. For the legal noun, 'annulments' is a related term, but it refers to a legal declaration that a marriage was never valid in the first place, which is different from ending a valid marriage. 'Dissolutions' is a more formal, technical term often used in legal documents to describe the ending of a partnership or marriage. In a more general sense, 'separations' can be used, though it usually implies that the couple is living apart without yet having legally ended the marriage. As a verb, 'separates' is the most common synonym, especially in metaphorical contexts. For example, 'The ocean separates the two continents' is similar to 'The ocean divorces the two landmasses,' though 'divorces' is much more emphatic and suggests a complete break. 'Disconnects,' 'severs,' and 'disunites' are other alternatives that emphasize the act of breaking a bond. 'Severs' is particularly strong, often used for cutting ties or relationships abruptly. 'Dissociates' is frequently used in psychological or intellectual contexts, such as 'He dissociates himself from his past actions.' When discussing the end of a relationship in a less formal way, 'breakups' is the go-to term, though it is rarely used for legal marriages. Choosing the right word helps convey the exact nature and intensity of the separation you are describing.

Dissolutions vs. Divorces
'Dissolutions' is more formal and can apply to business partnerships as well as marriages.
Severs vs. Divorces
'Severs' implies a sharp, often sudden cut, while 'divorces' implies a more structured or total separation.
Annulments vs. Divorces
'Annulments' treat the marriage as if it never existed; 'divorces' acknowledge the marriage but end it.

The legal team handled several dissolutions of corporate partnerships this quarter.

She severs all ties with the organization after the scandal comes to light.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

""

Neutral

""

Informal

""

Child friendly

""

Jerga

""

Dato curioso

In ancient Rome, 'divortium' also referred to a place where a road branched off in two different directions, which is a perfect metaphor for two people going their separate ways.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /dɪˈvɔːsɪz/
US /dɪˈvɔːrsɪz/
The primary stress is on the second syllable: di-VOR-ces.
Rima con
forces courses sources horses resources endorses remorses discourses
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing the final 's' as a hard 's' instead of a 'z' sound.
  • Putting the stress on the first syllable.
  • Merging the last two syllables into one.
  • Confusing the pronunciation with 'divers'.
  • Failing to pronounce the 'i' in the first syllable clearly.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

The word is common, but metaphorical uses can be tricky for lower levels.

Escritura 4/5

Requires careful subject-verb agreement and correct preposition use.

Expresión oral 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but the topic is sensitive.

Escucha 2/5

Easy to recognize in context due to its distinct sound.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

marry legal separate end family

Aprende después

annulment alimony dissolution custody mediation

Avanzado

decoupling ontological separation jurisdictional bifurcation severance

Gramática que debes saber

Third-Person Singular -s

He divorces (singular) vs. They divorce (plural).

Plural Nouns

One divorce vs. Many divorces.

Transitive Verbs

She divorces her husband (direct object).

Prepositional Phrases

He divorces his work FROM his life.

Reflexive Pronouns

She divorces HERSELF from the situation.

Ejemplos por nivel

1

He divorces his wife.

Il divorce de sa femme.

Third-person singular verb 'divorces' follows 'He'.

2

Many divorces are sad.

Beaucoup de divorces sont tristes.

Plural noun 'divorces' as the subject.

3

She divorces him today.

Elle divorce de lui aujourd'hui.

Verb 'divorces' with singular subject 'She'.

4

The town has few divorces.

La ville a peu de divorces.

Plural noun 'divorces' after 'few'.

5

Who divorces in the story?

Qui divorce dans l'histoire ?

Interrogative sentence using 'divorces' as a verb.

6

My uncle divorces his partner.

Mon oncle divorce de sa partenaire.

Singular subject 'My uncle' takes 'divorces'.

7

Are there many divorces here?

Y a-t-il beaucoup de divorces ici ?

Question form with plural noun.

8

He divorces and moves away.

Il divorce et s'en va.

Two verbs connected by 'and', both singular.

1

The judge signs the divorces.

Le juge signe les divorces.

Plural noun 'divorces' as the object.

2

He divorces her after five years.

Il divorce d'elle après cinq ans.

Verb 'divorces' indicating a specific timeframe.

3

Sometimes, divorces are necessary.

Parfois, les divorces sont nécessaires.

Plural noun 'divorces' used as a general statement.

4

She divorces him for a new life.

Elle divorce de lui pour une nouvelle vie.

Verb 'divorces' showing purpose.

5

The news talks about celebrity divorces.

Les nouvelles parlent des divorces de célébrités.

Compound noun phrase 'celebrity divorces'.

6

He divorces his work from his home.

Il sépare son travail de sa maison.

Metaphorical use of 'divorces' as a verb.

7

Do they have many divorces in Japan?

Y a-t-il beaucoup de divorces au Japon ?

Question about statistical frequency.

8

The lawyer handles ten divorces a week.

L'avocat traite dix divorces par semaine.

Plural noun 'divorces' indicating quantity.

1

The law divorces the two legal issues.

La loi sépare les deux questions juridiques.

Metaphorical verb usage in a formal context.

2

He divorces his emotions from the decision.

Il sépare ses émotions de la décision.

Verb 'divorces' followed by 'from'.

3

High-profile divorces often end up in the news.

Les divorces de haut niveau finissent souvent dans les journaux.

Adjective 'high-profile' modifying 'divorces'.

4

She divorces herself from the group's actions.

Elle se désolidarise des actions du groupe.

Reflexive use of the verb 'divorces'.

5

The study examines the causes of divorces.

L'étude examine les causes des divorces.

Noun 'divorces' in a research context.

6

He divorces his wife and keeps the house.

Il divorce de sa femme et garde la maison.

Verb 'divorces' in a sequence of events.

7

Are no-fault divorces common in your country?

Les divorces sans faute sont-ils courants dans votre pays ?

Specific legal term 'no-fault divorces'.

8

The company divorces its brand from the parent firm.

L'entreprise sépare sa marque de la société mère.

Corporate use of the verb 'divorces'.

1

The politician divorces his public persona from his private life.

Le politicien sépare son image publique de sa vie privée.

Sophisticated metaphorical verb usage.

2

Sociologists analyze how divorces impact urban development.

Les sociologues analysent comment les divorces impactent le développement urbain.

Plural noun in an academic subject.

3

The court divorces the couple after a long mediation.

Le tribunal divorce le couple après une longue médiation.

Transitive verb usage where the court is the subject.

4

She divorces her artistic vision from commercial success.

Elle sépare sa vision artistique du succès commercial.

Abstract separation using 'divorces'.

5

The frequency of divorces has reached a plateau.

La fréquence des divorces a atteint un plateau.

Noun 'divorces' used in statistical analysis.

6

He divorces himself from the scandal immediately.

Il se distancie immédiatement du scandale.

Reflexive verb 'divorces himself' for social distancing.

7

Contested divorces can take years to resolve.

Les divorces contestés peuvent mettre des années à se résoudre.

Adjective 'contested' modifying 'divorces'.

8

The philosophy divorces the mind from the physical body.

La philosophie sépare l'esprit du corps physique.

Philosophical application of the verb.

1

The legislative change effectively divorces the church from state funding.

Le changement législatif sépare effectivement l'église du financement de l'état.

Formal, systemic use of the verb 'divorces'.

2

Her memoir details the emotional toll of multiple divorces.

Ses mémoires détaillent le coût émotionnel de multiples divorces.

Plural noun in a literary context.

3

The scientist divorces the data from any preconceived notions.

Le scientifique sépare les données de toute notion préconçue.

Verb used to describe intellectual objectivity.

4

International divorces involve complex jurisdictional challenges.

Les divorces internationaux impliquent des défis juridictionnels complexes.

Technical legal usage of the plural noun.

5

He divorces his rhetoric from the harsh reality of the situation.

Il sépare sa rhétorique de la dure réalité de la situation.

Rhetorical critique using the verb 'divorces'.

6

The treaty divorces the disputed territory from the mainland.

Le traité sépare le territoire contesté du continent.

Geopolitical use of the verb.

7

The film explores how divorces echo through generations.

Le film explore comment les divorces résonnent à travers les générations.

Abstract noun usage in cultural analysis.

8

She divorces her personal identity from her professional achievements.

Elle sépare son identité personnelle de ses réussites professionnelles.

Psychological application of the verb.

1

The postmodern critique divorces the text from the author's intent.

La critique postmoderne sépare le texte de l'intention de l'auteur.

Highly abstract academic verb usage.

2

The sheer volume of divorces in the late 20th century reshaped the nuclear family.

Le volume impressionnant de divorces à la fin du 20ème siècle a remodelé la famille nucléaire.

Noun used in historical and sociological synthesis.

3

He divorces the aesthetic value of the art from its historical context.

Il sépare la valeur esthétique de l'art de son contexte historique.

Philosophical distinction using the verb.

4

The legal precedent divorces the right to property from the marital status.

Le précédent juridique sépare le droit à la propriété de l'état civil.

Precise legal verb usage.

5

The architect divorces form from function in his latest avant-garde project.

L'architecte sépare la forme de la fonction dans son dernier projet d'avant-garde.

Creative/artistic application of the verb.

6

The economic crisis divorces the currency's value from the gold standard.

La crise économique sépare la valeur de la monnaie de l'étalon-or.

Macroeconomic use of the verb.

7

The narrative divorces the protagonist from his past through a series of traumatic events.

Le récit sépare le protagoniste de son passé à travers une série d'événements traumatisants.

Literary analysis using the verb.

8

The complexity of cross-border divorces necessitates specialized legal expertise.

La complexité des divorces transfrontaliers nécessite une expertise juridique spécialisée.

Formal noun usage in a professional context.

Colocaciones comunes

messy divorces
contested divorces
no-fault divorces
high-profile divorces
divorces from reality
process divorces
rate of divorces
expensive divorces
amicable divorces
handle divorces

Frases Comunes

divorces on the rise

divorces for cause

divorces by mutual consent

multiple divorces

divorces and annulments

divorces in later life

uncontested divorces

divorces across borders

divorces and custody

divorces in the family

Se confunde a menudo con

divorces vs separations

Separations are often informal or temporary; divorces are final and legal.

divorces vs annulments

Annulments declare a marriage was never valid; divorces end a valid marriage.

divorces vs divers

A completely different word meaning 'various' or 'several,' but sounds slightly similar.

Modismos y expresiones

"divorced from reality"

To be completely out of touch with what is actually happening.

His expectations for the project are divorced from reality.

informal/neutral

"a messy divorce"

A very complicated and unpleasant legal separation.

The company's split from its partner was a messy divorce.

neutral

"divorce of convenience"

Ending a relationship or partnership for practical rather than emotional reasons.

It was a divorce of convenience to save the company's assets.

formal

"no-fault divorce"

A legal ending of marriage where neither party is blamed.

They opted for a no-fault divorce to keep things simple.

legal

"divorce is final"

The legal process is completely finished.

Once the divorce is final, she plans to travel.

neutral

"gray divorce"

A divorce that occurs among older couples (usually over 50).

Gray divorce is a growing trend in modern sociology.

sociological

"divorce settlement"

The financial and property agreement made at the end of a marriage.

The divorce settlement was worth millions.

legal

"divorce decree"

The official court document that ends a marriage.

He received the divorce decree in the mail today.

legal

"divorce rate"

The frequency of divorces in a population.

The national divorce rate has stabilized recently.

statistical

"divorce court"

The specific legal venue where marriages are ended.

They spent all morning in divorce court.

neutral

Fácil de confundir

divorces vs divorce

It's the singular form.

Use 'divorce' for one instance or the general concept; 'divorces' for multiple or the third-person verb.

Their divorce was quick, but many divorces are slow.

divorces vs divorced

It's the past tense or adjective.

Use 'divorced' to describe someone's state; 'divorces' for the current action or plural noun.

He is divorced now, but he divorces his past self every day.

divorces vs devise

Similar spelling/sound.

'Devise' means to plan or invent; 'divorces' means to separate or end a marriage.

He must devise a plan before he divorces his partner.

divorces vs diverse

Similar sound.

'Diverse' means showing a great deal of variety; 'divorces' is about separation.

The city has a diverse population, but also many divorces.

divorces vs dissolves

Similar meaning in legal contexts.

'Dissolves' is more formal and can apply to liquids or businesses; 'divorces' is specific to marriage or total separation.

The court dissolves the partnership, while the judge divorces the couple.

Patrones de oraciones

A1

Subject + divorces + Object.

He divorces her.

A2

There are + Adjective + divorces.

There are many divorces.

B1

Subject + divorces + Object + from + Noun.

She divorces her work from her life.

B2

The [Noun] + divorces + [Noun] + from + [Noun].

The law divorces the two issues.

C1

Subject + divorces + reflexive pronoun + from + [Noun].

He divorces himself from the scandal.

C2

The [Abstract Noun] + divorces + [Concept] + from + [Context].

The critique divorces the text from the author's intent.

B1

Adjective + divorces + Verb.

Messy divorces cost a lot of money.

B2

The frequency of + divorces + Verb.

The frequency of divorces is rising.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

Verbos

Adjetivos

Relacionado

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Common in legal, news, and personal contexts.

Errores comunes
  • They divorces. They divorce.

    With plural subjects like 'they', the verb does not need an 's'.

  • He divorces from his wife. He divorces his wife.

    When using the verb for people, you don't need the preposition 'from'.

  • The divorce rate are high. The divorce rate is high.

    The subject is 'rate' (singular), so the verb should be 'is'.

  • Many divorce occurred. Many divorces occurred.

    After 'many', you must use the plural noun 'divorces'.

  • She is divorces. She is divorcing / She is divorced.

    You cannot use the present tense 'divorces' after the helping verb 'is'.

Consejos

Subject-Verb Agreement

Remember: 'He/She/It divorces' but 'They divorce'. Don't add the 's' for plural subjects.

Metaphorical Use

Use 'divorces' to show a very strong, complete separation between two ideas to make your writing more powerful.

The Final 'S'

Don't forget the 's' when you are talking about more than one divorce or using it as a singular verb.

Sensitivity

Be careful when talking about divorces with people you don't know well, as it can be a very personal topic.

Precise Terms

In a legal context, 'divorces' is the standard term, but 'dissolutions' is often used in more formal documents.

The 'Z' Sound

The 's' at the end of 'divorces' should sound like a 'z', like in 'roses' or 'chooses'.

Avoid Overuse

In a long essay, try to mix 'divorces' with synonyms like 'separations' or 'dissolutions' to avoid repetition.

Context Clues

If you see 'divorces' after a name, it's a verb. If you see it after a number or 'many', it's a noun.

Preposition 'From'

Only use 'from' when you are separating things metaphorically, not when ending a marriage with a person.

Root Word

Think of 'divert' (to turn away) to help you remember that 'divorce' is about turning away from a marriage.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'DI-VOR-CES' as 'DIviding your path into TWO (DI) and VOicing a formal RElease from your CourSES (life paths).'

Asociación visual

Imagine a pair of scissors cutting a wedding certificate into two pieces, or a road splitting into two distinct paths in a forest.

Word Web

Marriage Legal Split Court End Separate Family Alimony

Desafío

Try to write three sentences using 'divorces' as a noun, a verb for a person, and a metaphorical verb for an idea.

Origen de la palabra

The word comes from the Middle English 'divorce', which was borrowed from Old French 'divorce'. This, in turn, came from the Latin 'divortium', meaning 'separation' or 'a turning aside'.

Significado original: The Latin root 'divortium' is derived from 'divertere', where 'di-' means 'aside' and 'vertere' means 'to turn'. So, the original sense was 'to turn away from each other'.

Indo-European (Latin branch)

Contexto cultural

Be careful when discussing divorces in personal settings, as it can be a painful or private topic for many people.

In the US and UK, 'divorces' are common and often discussed openly in media and self-help contexts.

The movie 'Kramer vs. Kramer' deals with the aftermath of a divorce. The TV show 'Divorce' starring Sarah Jessica Parker. Henry VIII's many divorces (and annulments) changed English history.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Legal

  • file for divorce
  • divorce decree
  • contested divorce
  • divorce settlement

Sociological

  • divorce rate
  • impact of divorce
  • trends in divorces
  • family structure

Metaphorical

  • divorced from reality
  • divorce of church and state
  • divorce form from function
  • divorce the past

Personal

  • going through a divorce
  • after the divorce
  • multiple divorces
  • messy divorce

Professional

  • divorce the brand
  • divorce departments
  • divorce policy from practice
  • corporate dissolution

Inicios de conversación

"How do you think the high number of divorces affects modern society?"

"Have you ever heard the phrase 'divorced from reality' used to describe a plan?"

"Why do you think celebrity divorces get so much attention in the news?"

"In your opinion, what is the most common reason why a person divorces?"

"How has the legal process for divorces changed in your country over the years?"

Temas para diario

Write about a time you had to 'divorce' yourself from a bad habit or a negative situation.

Reflect on how the frequency of divorces in literature reflects the era in which the books were written.

Discuss the pros and cons of 'no-fault divorces' in a modern legal system.

Describe a situation where someone's words were completely 'divorced' from their actions.

How do you think the concept of 'divorces' will evolve in the next fifty years?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

It can be both! As a noun, it's the plural of 'divorce' (e.g., 'There were three divorces'). As a verb, it's the third-person singular present tense (e.g., 'He divorces his wife').

It is pronounced di-VOR-ces, with the stress on the second syllable. The final 's' sounds like a 'z'.

Usually, no. In a legal sense, you say 'He divorces her.' You only use 'from' in metaphorical senses, like 'He divorces his work from his life.'

A no-fault divorce is a legal ending of a marriage where neither person has to prove that the other did something wrong.

It is a neutral word. It is used in everyday conversation, news reports, and legal documents.

Divorces are the final, legal end of a marriage. Separations mean the couple is living apart but might still be legally married.

Yes, it can be used metaphorically to mean a complete separation between two ideas, groups, or objects.

This is an idiom meaning someone is completely out of touch with what is actually happening or what is possible.

Yes, 'divorces' is the plural form. The singular form is 'divorce'.

Common adjectives include 'messy,' 'expensive,' 'amicable,' 'contested,' and 'high-profile.'

Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence using 'divorces' as a plural noun.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'divorces' as a verb for a person.

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writing

Use 'divorces' in a metaphorical sense with 'from'.

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writing

Write a short paragraph about the impact of divorces on society.

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writing

Describe a 'messy divorce' using the word 'divorces'.

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writing

Write a sentence about 'celebrity divorces'.

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writing

Explain the difference between 'divorces' and 'annulments' in two sentences.

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writing

Use 'divorces' to describe a company's action.

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writing

Write a sentence using the phrase 'divorced from reality'.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'divorces' in a legal context.

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writing

Describe a 'gray divorce'.

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writing

Use 'divorces' as the subject of a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about a lawyer who handles divorces.

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writing

Use 'divorces' in a sentence about history.

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Write a sentence using 'divorces' and 'children'.

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writing

Use 'divorces' in a sentence about a judge.

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writing

Write a sentence about the 'divorce rate'.

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writing

Use 'divorces' to describe a separation of ideas.

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writing

Write a sentence about 'no-fault divorces'.

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writing

Use 'divorces' in a sentence about a memoir.

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speaking

Pronounce 'divorces' clearly.

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speaking

Explain what 'divorces' are in your own words.

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speaking

Use 'divorces' in a sentence about a friend.

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speaking

Talk about why 'divorces' might be common in some countries.

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speaking

Use the idiom 'divorced from reality' in a sentence.

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speaking

Describe a 'messy divorce' you've heard about.

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speaking

Explain the difference between 'he divorces' and 'they divorce'.

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speaking

Use 'divorces' to describe a separation of two departments.

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speaking

Discuss the 'divorce rate' in your country.

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speaking

How do 'divorces' affect children?

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speaking

Use 'divorces' in a sentence about a judge.

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speaking

Explain the term 'no-fault divorces'.

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speaking

Use 'divorces' in a metaphorical way about history.

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speaking

Describe the emotional toll of 'divorces'.

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speaking

Talk about 'celebrity divorces' and the media.

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speaking

Use 'divorces' in a sentence about a lawyer.

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speaking

Explain why 'divorces' is a plural noun.

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speaking

Use 'divorces' in a sentence about a memoir.

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speaking

Discuss the legal aspects of 'divorces'.

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speaking

Say 'divorces' three times fast.

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listening

Listen and write the word: [divorces]

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listening

Is the speaker using 'divorces' as a noun or verb? 'The city has many divorces.'

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listening

Is the speaker using 'divorces' as a noun or verb? 'He divorces her.'

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listening

What is the last sound in 'divorces'?

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listening

How many syllables do you hear in 'divorces'?

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listening

Which word did the speaker say? 'divorce' or 'divorces'?

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listening

Does the speaker sound formal or informal? 'The court divorces the couple.'

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listening

What is the object in the sentence you heard? 'She divorces him.'

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listening

Identify the adjective: 'Messy divorces are common.'

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listening

Is the stress on the first or second syllable?

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listening

What is the topic of the sentence? 'The divorce rate is high.'

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listening

Did the speaker say 'divorces' or 'divers'?

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listening

Is the sentence positive or negative? 'Many divorces are painful.'

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listening

What follows the word 'divorces' in this sentence? 'He divorces his wife.'

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listening

Is the subject singular or plural? 'She divorces him.'

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/ 200 correct

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