a positive association between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a positive association between" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a relationship between two variables or concepts that shows a correlation or connection in a positive direction. Example: There is a positive association between exercise and good health, as regular physical activity has been linked to a decreased risk of chronic diseases.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We also find a positive association between IRQ and expected future cash flows.

Accounting, Organizations and Society

There was a positive association between vegetation and the presence of mosquito larvae (p<0.001).

Harvard University

Several studies have documented a positive association between education and the transition to second births.

Princeton University

In the recent past, a positive association between research activity and reduced mortality has been shown.

Public Health

Animal experiment studies have revealed a positive association between intake of citrus fruits and bone health.

Phytomedicine

The results show a positive association between PMS and relationship performance.

Management Accounting Research

Findings reveal a positive association between the level of feature provision and browser decision-making outcomes.

International Journal of Human-Computer Studies

Previous reports have suggested a positive association between specific genotypes and PML.

Journal of Clinical Virology

The results demonstrate significant evidence of a positive association between institutional ownership and earnings quality.

Journal of Business Research

There was a positive association between the presence of Aeromonas and the bacterial indicator organisms.

Water Research

Findings identify a positive association between website design features and browsing outcomes.

Journal of Business Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a positive association between", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates that an increase in one variable is linked to an increase in the other. Avoid implying causation unless it is explicitly supported by evidence.

Common error

A common mistake is assuming that "a positive association between" two variables means one causes the other. Always clarify that association does not equal causation unless further evidence supports a causal relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a positive association between" functions as a connector in sentences, indicating a relationship where the values of two variables tend to increase or decrease together. As Ludwig shows, it's frequently used to introduce findings in research.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

78%

Academia

15%

News & Media

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a positive association between" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression indicating a relationship where an increase in one variable is linked to an increase in another. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for formal writing, particularly in scientific and academic contexts. However, it's important to remember that association does not imply causation. The most common contexts are in science and academia, as seen in Ludwig's examples, and using precise language will ensure clear and accurate communication in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an association between

This option removes the adjective "positive", making the association neutral and not necessarily implying a direct increase.

a positive correlation between

Replaces association with correlation, emphasizing a statistical relationship.

a significant correlation between

Adds emphasis to the correlation being statistically significant.

a direct correlation between

This phrase implies a more quantitative and measurable relationship than the original phrase.

a direct relationship between

Emphasizes that the relationship is straightforward and clear.

a correlation between

This phrase highlights a statistical relationship, implying a mutual connection.

a link between

This phrase is more general and can suggest a less defined or weaker relationship.

a notable connection between

Highlights that the connection is worthy of attention or is easily observed.

a connection between

Similar to "a link between", this phrase indicates a general relationship or association.

a relationship between

This is a broad term denoting any kind of connection, be it causal or correlational.

FAQs

How can I use "a positive association between" in a sentence?

You can use "a positive association between" to describe a relationship where an increase in one factor corresponds with an increase in another. For example, "There is a positive association between exercise and cardiovascular health".

What's the difference between "a positive association between" and "a correlation between"?

"A positive association between" suggests a general relationship, while "a correlation between" implies a statistical measure of the relationship's strength and direction. Correlation is more specific.

What are some alternatives to saying "a positive association between"?

You could use phrases like "a direct correlation between", "a link between", or "a connection between" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to assume causation when there's "a positive association between" two things?

No, it's not. "A positive association between" only indicates a relationship or pattern, not necessarily a cause-and-effect relationship. Further research is needed to establish causation.