verb phrase · formal
file for divorce
UK/faɪl fɔːr dɪˈvɔːs/US/faɪl fɔr dɪˈvɔrs/FILE·for di·VORCE
Band 5-6speakingtask2
to submit a legal request to end a marriage
Examples
“After years of trying to save their marriage, she decided to file for divorce.”
“Couples sometimes file for divorce when communication breaks down.”
“He threatened to file for divorce if they didn't change their lifestyle.”
Band 8 sentence
“After months of mediation failed, the couple reluctantly agreed it was time to file for divorce.”
Collocations
- file for divorce
- file papers
Word family
file verbdivorce noun/verbdivorced adjective
Common mistakes
apply for divorce→file for divorce
file a divorce→file for divorce
Say it for a higher band
5ask for a divorce→6get a divorce→7+file for divorce
Synonyms
get a divorce
Easily confused
separation
“They separated last year but haven't divorced yet.”
Related words
Learn this word with the rest of its set, and get reminded at the right time.
In Family & Relationships
Learn it with its set