From 《战国策·魏策一》: Zhang Yi warned King Hui of Wei that without Qin's alliance, Qi, Zhao, Han, and Chu would attack from four sides — "此所谓四分五裂之道也" — this is the path to being carved up on every side. A Warring States geopolitical image.
usage
Strongly negative. Used for countries, organizations, parties, families, and any group torn apart by conflict. Antonym: 万众一心 (a million hearts as one).
