a close relative

USAGE SUMMARY

'a close relative' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to a family member who is, as the phrase implies, close in relation. For example: "My great-aunt was a close relative of mine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They're with a close relative, holding hands.

The Guardian - Film

When a close relative dies, the stress can be overwhelming.

Stanford University

What about mate, a close relative of tea?

Harvard University

Often, it depends on just whether they're a close relative.

The Guardian

Their first interview was with a close relative of White's.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I went there on my motorcycle," said a close relative.

The New York Times

"It is not even a close relative of Neptune.

The Guardian

Smoking is not barbecue, although it is a close relative.

The New York Times - Food

GALANGAL -- A close relative of ginger, though somewhat more pungent.

The New York Times - Food

Were you or a close relative born outside the UK?

The Guardian

Health geography is a close relative of medical geography.

International Encyclopedia of Human Geography

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a close relative" to convey a sense of personal connection or emotional significance in your writing.

Common error

While "a close relative" is acceptable, consider using more precise language like "immediate family member" or specifying the exact relationship (e.g., "mother", "sibling") in formal writing for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a close relative" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It identifies a person connected by blood, marriage, or adoption, with whom one shares a bond and familial tie. Ludwig's examples show its use in describing relationships in various contexts, from personal loss to legal matters.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

30%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a close relative" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that refers to a family member with whom one shares a strong connection. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in a wide variety of contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider the specific context and choose more precise language (e.g. "immediate family member" or specifying the relationship) when greater clarity is needed. The phrase appears frequently in news, academic, and scientific publications, denoting its widespread applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

close kin

A more concise way of saying "a close relative", still denoting familial proximity.

closely related

Shifts the focus to the act of being related rather than emphasizing the role of relative.

immediate family member

Specifies the degree of kinship as belonging to the closest familial circle.

near relation

Indicates a familial tie that is not distant, suggesting a close connection.

blood relative

Highlights the genetic connection, emphasizing shared ancestry.

direct descendant

Focuses on the lineage aspect, indicating a direct line of familial succession.

next of kin

Refers to the closest living relatives, often with legal implications.

intimate relation

Emphasizes the emotional closeness and familiarity within the familial bond.

immediate ancestor

Focuses on the familial tie in the preceding generation, denoting a direct link.

family member

A more general term, losing the emphasis on proximity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a close relative" to describe a family member with whom one shares a strong bond or familial connection. For instance, "She confided in a close relative about her concerns".

What is a good alternative to "a close relative"?

Depending on the context, you could use terms like "immediate family member", "near relation", or "blood relative" to convey a similar meaning.

What does it mean to be "a close relative"?

Being "a close relative" implies a strong familial bond, often characterized by frequent interaction, emotional support, and shared experiences. It usually refers to immediate family members or those with significant connections.

Is "a close relative" the same as "immediate family"?

While similar, "a close relative" can sometimes extend beyond the immediate family (parents, siblings, children, spouse) to include aunts, uncles, grandparents, or cousins with whom one has a particularly strong connection. "Immediate family" is generally more narrowly defined.