fault line

noun

, Geology.

1. the intersection of a fault with the surface of the earth or other plane of reference.

fault line

noun

1. Also calledfault plane geology the surface of a fault fracture along which the rocks have been displaced
2. a potentially disruptive division or area of contention

   Europe remains the main fault line in the Tory Party

Word History and Origins

Origin of fault line¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

In both contests, police abolition — and law enforcement spending overall — has emerged as a political fault line, particularly for voters worried about crime and disorder.

From Los Angeles Times

The Central Park Five case consumed New York City for years, exposing deep fault lines around race, crime, and inequality in the criminal justice system.

From BBC

Yet the showdown would also emphasize certain fault lines in the Recording Academy and in the music business at large involving race, genre and authenticity — and not for the first time.

From Los Angeles Times

Vicente and his girls have trouble speaking directly to the fault lines that have built up over the years between them.

From Los Angeles Times

But dig a bit deeper and the fault lines of America’s political upheaval can be found here too.

From BBC

Related Words

• rift