a possible association between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a possible association between" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential links or relationships between two or more variables, concepts, or phenomena. Example: "The study aims to explore a possible association between diet and mental health outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To report a possible association between fluoroquinolones and diplopia.

Ophthalmology

There remains a possible association between the Austroasiatics and the domestication of Aus rice.

Rice

Furthermore, we attempted to establish a possible association between the BD and the 30-days mortality.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

However, knowledge regarding a possible association between substance abuse and mortality is limited.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

In fact, several studies have explored a possible association between migraine and hypertension, with contradictory results.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Some reports have described a possible association between changes in HRV and pain prediction.

JA Clinical Reports

This study was undertaken to present a possible association between maternal hypercalcemia and fetal polyhydramnion.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

To report a possible association between azoospermia and acute renal failure.

Fertility and Sterility

A possible association between MAP infection and Crohn's disease in humans has been also described.

International Journal of Mycobacteriology

The study objective was to investigate a possible association between statin use and breast cancer (BRCA).

Journal of Clinical Epidemiology

We also explored a possible association between fetal and maternal concentrations of sFlt1.

European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a possible association between", ensure that you clearly define the two elements being associated and provide context for why this association is being considered. Be specific about what kind of evidence would strengthen the claim.

Common error

Avoid implying causation when only an association is being discussed. "A possible association between" suggests a relationship but does not prove that one element causes the other. Use caution and avoid language that suggests a direct cause-and-effect relationship without sufficient evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a possible association between" functions as a qualifier used to introduce a potential relationship between two or more entities. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It serves to cautiously suggest a connection that warrants further investigation, as evidenced by the numerous examples found in scientific and academic contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

100%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a possible association between" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression, particularly within scientific and academic domains. According to Ludwig AI analysis, its function is to cautiously introduce potential relationships, emphasizing the need for further investigation without prematurely asserting causation. Given its prevalence in formal contexts like research papers and scientific articles, the phrase is best suited for objective and rigorous discussions. Ludwig's examples further highlight the phrase's common usage in presenting hypotheses and exploring potential links, reinforcing its importance in scholarly communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potential link between

Emphasizes the possibility of a connection, often suggesting a cause-and-effect relationship.

a potential correlation between

Highlights a statistical relationship, where changes in one variable are related to changes in another.

a potential relationship between

A broad term indicating a connection without specifying the nature of the relationship.

a suggested connection between

Indicates that a connection has been proposed or hypothesized.

a hypothesized link between

Specifically indicates that the association is part of a hypothesis.

a tentative connection between

Suggests a connection that is still uncertain and requires further investigation.

a conceivable relationship between

Highlights the possibility of a relationship, even if not yet proven.

a plausible link between

Suggests that the connection is reasonable or likely, but not definitively established.

a suspected association between

Implies that there's reason to believe a relationship exists, often based on initial findings.

a preliminary indication of a link between

Focuses on early evidence that suggests a possible relationship.

FAQs

How do you use "a possible association between" in a sentence?

Use "a possible association between" to suggest a potential relationship or link between two or more things. For example: "There is "a possible association between" smoking and lung cancer."

What is a more formal way to say "a possible association between"?

More formal alternatives include phrases like "a potential correlation between", "a suggested relationship between", or "a hypothesized link between", depending on the specific context.

What words can I use instead of "association" in the phrase "a possible association between"?

Synonyms for "association" in this context include "correlation", "connection", "relationship", "link", or "tie".

Is it correct to say "a possible association of" instead of "a possible association between"?

While "association of" can be used in different contexts, "a possible association between" is generally preferred when discussing a relationship connecting two distinct elements.