The phrase "to terminate the marriage" means to end or legally dissolve a marriage, so that the two individuals are no longer considered married. Full definition
To terminate your marriage by dissolution, you and your spouse must file your petition together. (info.legalzoom.com)
The difference between legal separation and divorce is simple: Legal separation does not terminate the marriage or each person's marital status. (lvlaw.org)
For any number of reasons, spouses might want to live separately for a while before taking the final step to officially terminate their marriage. (info.legalzoom.com)