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split up

B1 informal separable both
In simple words

When a couple stops being together, or when a group divides into smaller groups

Literal meaning: To split in an upward/outward motion — metaphor of division, semi-transparent

Meanings

1 A2 informal

Of a couple or romantic partners, to end their relationship

"Maria and her boyfriend split up after a long argument about their future."

"We were together for two years, and then we just split up."

Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral

To divide a group of people or things into smaller parts

"The teacher split the class up into four groups for the project."

Grammar: separable
3 B1 neutral

To separate and go in different directions, especially to cover more ground

"The search party split up to cover the forest more quickly."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Has two main senses: (1) ending a romantic relationship ('they split up after three years') and (2) dividing a group or thing into parts ('let's split up into teams'). The relationship sense is very common in everyday conversation. Separability applies to the 'divide' sense ('split the class up into groups').

Commonly used with

couple band team class group partners

Forms

Base
split up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
splits up
he/she/it
Past simple
splited up
yesterday
Past participle
splited up
have + pp
-ing form
spliting up
continuous

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Synonyms

break up separate part ways divide up go separate ways call it quits

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