How to end a friendship with someone.

Leo_Valdez
05/28/25 5:59pm
Help!! I just had a big fight with a best friend since pre-k, and need to end the friendship. How do I do this?
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Expert Comments

05/28/25 6:00pm
Ending a friendship with a lifelong friend is hard, but it's sometimes necessary. It can be tempting to ghost or just let the friendship drift away, and in cases where you and your friend have simply outgrown each other, this may be an appropriate way to dissolve the friendship. But if they've done something to make you rethink the relationship, it may be best to tell them, respectfully but firmly, why you're stepping away. They may be surprised and hurt to hear you no longer want to be their friend, so try to be kind when you deliver the news, especially since they were your best friend for such a long time.

If the fight made you realize you're not compatible as friends, try saying something like, "I know we've been friends for a while, and you've been a big part of my life. But this fight has made me realize we're not on the same page. I think we're growing in different directions, and I'd like to prioritize other friendships now." Or, if they've done something to betray you, you may want to tell them this directly: "I just can't get past what you did, and I'm not sure I'll ever be able to go back to being friends. I hope you can understand that."

We're sorry you're going through this. Unfortunately, we all outgrow friendships for various reasons, but ending them is how we make room for new ones. Good luck!
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wikiHow Expert
Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFP
Clinical Therapist & Adjunct Professor
06/09/25 10:26pm
Friendships are hard to navigate. Sometimes you’re getting along great and other times you’re bumping heads. I would take some time to really think about things after the fight. Emotions are high and you want to take time to process what took place. I would give yourself some space, let them know you’re taking some time to yourself and revisit this after you have time to decompress. If you’re still feeling the same way in a few days then I would act on it. There doesn’t need to be a huge dramatic ending to the friendship, but there can be if you need closure. Since there was an event that took place I’m sure they’re aware of how you feel.I would say create distance, space and then slowly stop talking to the person. If they ask for an explanation then you’re welcome to have a conversation or not. The ball is in your court.
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