drives a wedge between
Causes a rift
To drive a wedge between people or groups is to cause division or conflict where there was unity.
The image is of forcing a splitting tool into solid wood: His comments drove a wedge between the two allies.
The phrase implies deliberate action to create distance or enmity: She tried to drive a wedge between him and his family.
- alienationState of being isolated
- disagreementAbsence of shared opinion
- instigationAct of provoking action
- stirring the potProvoking controversy intentionally
- resentmentPersistent bitter displeasure
provocation · estrangement · jealousy · meddling · polarization · dispute · interference · playing favorites · taking sides · pitting against · schism · mistrust · trust issues · betrayal · turning against · separation · breaking up · marginalization