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Divorce lawyer reveals two phrases that show a marriage is over

Home> Life> Sex & Relationships

Published 15:34 1 Oct 2025 GMT+1

Divorce lawyer reveals two phrases that show a marriage is over

Sheela Mackintosh-Stewart knows a divorce-about-to-happen when she sees one

Britt Jones

Britt Jones

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Featured Image Credit: Getty stock images

Topics: Life, Sex and Relationships, Wedding, Advice

Britt Jones
Britt Jones

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A divorce lawyer has revealed the two things people say in a failing relationship, and you might find that you’ve said those sentences too.

There have been many experts who have come out to share what they believe are the true indicators that a relationship will end in ruin, but the words we say? Surely, conversations aren’t that damaging. Well, of course they are.

Previously, we’ve talked about how the first signs of failure can be seen at the wedding, like if the couple partakes in cake smashing or even arguing over the budget.

But little did you know that there are those subtle signs that can really foreshadow the end is near.

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According to divorce solicitor Sheela Mackintosh-Stewart, she knows within minutes whether a couple is going to divorce, and that’s because they use two common phrases.

Divorce can be seen from a mile away (Getty stock images)
Divorce can be seen from a mile away (Getty stock images)

I bet it’s: “Did you not see the laundry basket there, or do you prefer your socks on the ground next to it?”

All joking aside, when it’s time to end the marriage, there’s not much you can do to save it.

Particularly if one of the two have thought or said either of these things - even once during the relationship.

She told the Daily Mail: "I can always spot - within a few minutes - which marriage can be saved and which is heading for divorce."

She explained that during a consultation with a couple, she’ll ask them what their goals are for their future together.

She said: "If the response from one partner is: 'I can't see a future' or 'I want to leave with a timeline of moving out' then, no matter how much the other person wants to save it, the relationship is over."

But that’s not all.

If couples don't see a future, it's the end (Jason Dean / Getty)
If couples don't see a future, it's the end (Jason Dean / Getty)

The expert said that if the couple finds it hard to come up with compliments... it’s splitsville.

Or, if they compliment things that they liked before trouble started or things that they don’t do anymore, rather than what they’re doing now - it's an issue.

Sheela said you can tell if they aren’t happy in each other’s company, stating: “It shows in tone, eye contact and body language.”

If they use sarcasm, are eye-rolling, name-calling or partaking in excessive criticism, it’s not something to take lightly.

She revealed: "In the mind of the partner being cruel, this means the frame has shifted from 'we have a problem' to 'you are the problem'. From here, toxic resentment can only start to pile up."

She added: "If one or both look uncomfortable or subconsciously find themselves trying to nudge the chairs apart – even by a few inches – I know."

Now, there are other things too that can be an indicator of divorce.

James Brien, the founder of Easy Online Divorce, revealed that when communication is gone, so is your relationship.

He said: “A solid marriage is built on being able to open up and talk things through.

"When this starts to slide, it’s a good idea to get things back on track quickly, as over time a lack of communication can mean you start to disconnect emotionally.”

Can you think of anything else?

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