While breaking up is a universal human experience, the context around 分手 (fēnshǒu) in China can carry different social weight compared to the West. In many Western cultures, particularly American culture, dating and breaking up are often viewed through a highly individualistic lens. A breakup, while painful, is primarily a personal decision between two people. In China, while this is also true, the decision can be more deeply intertwined with collectivistic values and family expectations. Relationships are often seen as a path toward marriage, which is a significant family and social event. Therefore, a 分手 can sometimes be perceived as a failure not just for the couple, but also as a disappointment to both families who may have been invested in the outcome. The concept of “face” or 面子 (miànzi) can also play a role; a public or messy breakup might be seen as causing a loss of face for the individuals and their families. This doesn't mean every breakup is a major drama, but the potential for wider social and familial implications is generally higher than in the West.
分手 (fēnshǒu) is used overwhelmingly in the context of romantic relationships. It is the standard, go-to term.
While it can technically describe the parting of ways for business partners (`和合伙人分手了`), this usage is far less common and can sound overly dramatic, as if implying a romantic fallout. For non-romantic separations, other terms are usually preferred.