Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a personal relation
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a personal relation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing connections or interactions between individuals that are intimate or significant in nature. Example: "She values a personal relation with her clients, believing it fosters trust and loyalty."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
5 human-written examples
Interviewed patients or informal caregivers might develop a personal relation to the interviewer; this represents both a benefit (i.e. finding a person who has the time to listen, and who will visit repeatedly) and a risk (expectancy of a therapeutic role, additional burden) [ 23].
Science
The decision was hailed by conservative groups opposed to same-sex marriage as an important repudiation of San Francisco's bid to skirt a state law, approved by voters in 2000, that defines marriage as "a personal relation arising out of a civil contract between a man and a woman".
News & Media
One could hardly expect the literary and philosophical elite to focus on the strenuousness of faith as a personal relation to God unsupported by reason, or on the strenuousness of love as responsibility to and for one's neighbour unsupported by society's ethos.
Encyclopedias
"And these people take them all very seriously," noted Hickok, "as establishing a personal relation".
News & Media
A Dutch study using tele-monitoring in the care for chronic patients in the Netherlands similarly found that some nurses worry that implementation of telecare impoverishes patient care and hinders the development of a personal relation between nurse and patient [ 23].
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
55 human-written examples
"I don't have a bad personal relation with Putin," Mr. Obama said.
News & Media
According to a Reuters dispatch, in his letters Einstein ordered Maric to keep his clothes and rooms neat, serve him three meals a day, and "renounce all personal relations with [him], except when they are required to keep up social appearances".
Science & Research
Many Malians follow a line of belief that posits a more mystical, personal relation with the deity.
News & Media
Against this tendency towards over-socializing human action, it has been argued that most behavior is closely embedded in a network of personal relations, and that a theory of norms cannot leave the specific social context out of consideration (Granovetter 1985).
Science
I have personal relation with God.
Bachand hopes The Dead Web - La Fin will get people to rethink their personal relation and our collective to the internet.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing professional interactions, ensure that the term clearly conveys the nature and purpose of the interaction.
Common error
Avoid using "a personal relation" in contexts where the connection is primarily professional or superficial. Opt for terms like "professional contact" or "business association" to accurately reflect the nature of the interaction.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a personal relation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and denotes a bond between individuals. Examples include discussing the risks/benefits of interviewers developing "a personal relation" with patients, or referring to the strenuousness of faith as "a personal relation" to God.
Frequent in
News & Media
33%
Science
50%
Encyclopedias
17%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "a personal relation" is a grammatically sound noun phrase that describes an interpersonal connection or bond. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It appears most frequently in scientific and news contexts, suggesting a neutral register. While synonyms like "close relationship" or "intimate connection" may be more appropriate depending on the desired nuance, "a personal relation" provides a versatile option for conveying the presence of an interpersonal dynamic. When writing, remember to be aware of overstating emotional intimacy.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a close relationship
Focuses on the degree of intimacy and connection, implying a strong bond.
an intimate connection
Emphasizes emotional closeness and privacy between individuals.
a human connection
Emphasizes the shared humanity and emotional understanding between people.
a special bond
Suggests a unique and significant connection that is not easily replicated.
a friendly association
Highlights the aspect of amiability and positive interaction.
a professional relationship
Emphasizes the business/professional aspect instead of the purely personal one.
a working rapport
Suggests a cooperative and productive dynamic, often in a professional setting.
a familial tie
Specifies a bond based on kinship or family-like closeness.
a social bond
Broadly refers to any connection formed through social interactions.
an interpersonal dynamic
Highlights the interactive processes and behaviors between individuals.
FAQs
What does "a personal relation" mean?
The phrase "a personal relation" refers to a connection or bond between individuals, typically involving some degree of emotional investment, trust, or mutual understanding. It suggests an interaction that goes beyond purely transactional or superficial exchanges.
How can I use "a personal relation" in a sentence?
You might say, "She values "a personal relation" with her students, believing it fosters a more effective learning environment" or "Maintaining "a personal relation" with clients is key to long-term business success."
What are some alternatives to "a personal relation"?
Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a close relationship", "an intimate connection", or "a friendly association" to express similar ideas with slightly different nuances.
Is "a personal relation" formal or informal?
The phrase "a personal relation" is relatively neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or professional settings, "a professional relationship" or "an interpersonal dynamic" might be more appropriate.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested