rift
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for rift, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A deep crack or split, especially in the earth or rock.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use rift
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English rift, of North Germanic origin, related to Old Norse rífa (\"to tear\").
Full origin of rift →Frequently asked questions
What does “rift” mean?
The word “rift” means a deep crack or split, especially in the earth or rock. In plain terms, a split — either a physical crack in the ground, or a falling-out between people.
How do you pronounce “rift”?
“Rift” is pronounced rihft (/ɹɪft/ in IPA).
How do you use “rift” in a sentence?
Here is “rift” used in a sentence: “A rift opened in the valley floor after the earthquake.”
What part of speech is “rift”?
Depending on how it is used, “rift” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “rift” come from?
The word “rift” comes from Middle English. From Middle English rift, of North Germanic origin, related to Old Norse rífa (\"to tear\").
Is “rift” a common word?
“Rift” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
How many meanings does “rift” have?
“Rift” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a deep crack or split, especially in the earth or rock.
What is the difference between "rift" and "gap"?
"Rift" usually implies a sudden or dramatic split, whether physical, as in cracked rock, or relational, as in a serious disagreement between people. "Gap" is more neutral and can describe any space or difference without necessarily implying a break that occurred.
What is the difference between a "rift" and a "feud"?
A "rift" is the break or disagreement itself, a rupture in a relationship between people or groups. A "feud" implies an ongoing, often prolonged conflict, which can be the result of an unresolved rift.
Can "rift" be used as a verb?
Yes, "rift" can function as a verb meaning to split apart, though the noun forms describing a physical crack or a relational break are more common in everyday use.