a close association

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a close association" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong or intimate relationship between two or more entities, such as people, organizations, or concepts. Example: "The research highlighted a close association between diet and overall health outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both facts suggest a close association with the building.

The New York Times

These revealed a close association of TiO2 ENPs with activated sludge.

Science of The Total Environment

A close association between Pb, Zn, and Mn was observed using PCA and Pearson's correlation.

Geoderma

In Dresden he formed a close association with the leading German landscape painter Caspar David Friedrich.

Britannica

In 1914 Eliot met and began a close association with the American poet Ezra Pound.

Britannica

There is, in effect, a close association between geothermal energy sources and volcanically active regions.

Britannica

During that period, the government hopes for a "close association with the EU customs union".

The Guardian - Opinion

It was formed in 1945, and had a close association with Shostakovich.

The New York Times - Arts

American law enforcement officials say Mr. Zubaydeh formed a close association with Mr. Padilla.

The New York Times

The Philharmonic has had a close association with him, and the musicians play splendidly for him.

The New York Times

The site ultimately defers to the place by creating a close association with it.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a close association", ensure that the entities being connected are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "a close association between X and Y".

Common error

Avoid using "a close association" when the connection is weak or speculative. Reserve it for situations where there is substantial evidence or clear indicators of a strong relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a close association" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It indicates a strong connection or relationship between two or more entities. Ludwig AI validates this usage with numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

57%

News & Media

28%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a close association" is a commonly used phrase to denote a strong connection or relationship between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI indicates, its grammatical status is correct. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, the phrase serves to inform about significant relationships. When employing this phrase, clarity is crucial; ensure the connected entities are distinctly identified. Alternatives such as "a strong connection" or "a tight bond" can be used depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong connection

Replaces "close" with "strong", emphasizing the intensity of the bond.

a tight bond

Uses "tight" to indicate a secure and intimate connection, differing slightly in connotation.

an intimate relationship

Focuses on the personal and deeply connected nature of the association.

a profound link

Highlights the depth and significance of the connection.

a significant correlation

Applies more to statistical or factual relationships, rather than personal ones.

a direct relationship

Emphasizes the lack of intermediaries in the association.

a solid affiliation

Indicates a formal or structural connection, such as between organizations.

a shared history

Highlights a background of events and experiences in common.

a mutual dependence

Focuses on the reciprocal need of both entities within the connection.

a symbiotic relationship

Implies that the relationship is mutually beneficial, each participant gains from the other.

FAQs

How can I use "a close association" in a sentence?

Use "a close association" to describe a strong connection or relationship between two or more things. For example, "There is "a close association" between diet and health."

What are some alternatives to "a close association"?

You can use alternatives like "a strong connection", "a tight bond", or "an intimate relationship" to convey a similar meaning depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a close association between X and Y"?

Yes, "a close association between X and Y" is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate a strong relationship or link between X and Y.

What is the difference between "a close association" and "a casual acquaintance"?

"A close association" implies a strong, significant relationship, while "a casual acquaintance" refers to a superficial or slight familiarity. The former suggests a deeper connection than the latter.