a tie that binds

USAGE SUMMARY

"a tie that binds" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a strong connection or bond between people or groups. For example, "Family traditions are a tie that binds us together." Alternative expressions include "a bond that connects" and "a link that unites."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Almost every family in Britain has a tie that binds them to America.

The Guardian

Saying "migration is a tie that binds us, not divides us," the presidents appointed a working group to explore new policies that would help stem the tide of illegal immigration from Mexico to the United States and bolster protections for immigrants along the border and at work north of the border.

The New York Times

It can certainly be a captivating spectacle, but participation is what makes it a tie that binds us.

HuffPost

Now 3Com, a maker of computer networking equipment and security technology, has opted for a tie that binds it more loosely to China.

The New York Times

After the high court decides, the middle will march, and the world will marvel at an amazing American political culture in which a landslide can prove a divisive force while a close election can turn out to be a tie that binds.

The New York Times

One meaning of in the abstract is "apart from material objects"; its synonym is "theoretical," its antonym "concrete". An abstract friendship, then, is a tie that binds in theory but that does not suggest participation in the sharing of material objects, such as cash and other valuables that could be construed as graft.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

What I found was that no matter what state I visited, what political belief people had, whether they were born in the U.S. or had immigrated here to find a better life, there was a tie that bound every American I met--an optimistic can-do attitude that propelled America to be a beacon of light for the oppressed the world over.

Forbes

What I found was that no matter what state I visited, what political belief people had, whether they were born in the U.S. or had immigrated here to find a better life, there was a tie that bound every American I met an optimistic can-do attitude that propelled America to be a beacon of light for the oppressed the world over.

Forbes

"At The Sun, there is a spiritual tie that binds the partners," said Michael Steinhardt, one of the principals.

The New York Times

We have a new tie that binds us together: anger.

Forbes

In a ties-that-bind twist that casts M in an entirely new light, "Skyfall" takes a good deal of time digging into her motives and methods.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal or journalistic writing, pair this phrase with a prepositional phrase (e.g., "...to our past") to clarify exactly what the entities are being bound to.

Common error

Ensure that the verb 'binds' remains singular when preceded by 'a tie'. While the plural variant 'ties that bind' is more famous as a cultural idiom, writers often mistakenly use the plural verb 'bind' with the singular noun 'tie', which violates standard agreement rules.

How to use

Learn how to use "a tie that binds" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

This phrase functions as a noun phrase typically serving as the subject or a subject complement in a sentence. It uses a restrictive relative clause ("that binds") to define the specific nature of the noun "tie", creating a metaphorical image of connection.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The expression "a tie that binds" is an elegant and grammatically standard way to describe a powerful unifying factor. Analysis of Ludwig's data confirms that while it is less frequent than its plural counterpart, it remains a favorite among professional writers in The New York Times and The Guardian for its ability to concisely pinpoint a shared attribute or history. It functions effectively in subjects ranging from international relations to intimate family dynamics. Ludwig AI identifies it as a correct and highly useful phrase for those wishing to communicate strong, meaningful connections with a touch of literary flair.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bond that connects

Uses a more literal noun for the connection and a simpler verb.

a shared link

Emphasizes the mutual nature of the connection in a more modern, less poetic tone.

a common thread

Shifts the metaphor from a physical tie to a recurring element within a narrative or structure.

a unifying force

Stronger emphasis on the active power of the connection to pull entities together.

a connective tissue

An anatomical metaphor implying a functional and intrinsic necessity.

a bridge between

Focuses on the spanning of a gap rather than the fastening of two things.

a mutual attachment

Places more focus on the emotional or interpersonal state of the entities.

the glue that holds

A more informal, colloquial metaphor for stability and cohesion.

a foundational link

Suggests the connection is essential to the very existence of the relationship.

a shared affinity

Focuses on internal preference or liking rather than an external binding factor.

FAQs

How do I use "a tie that binds" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe a unifying element, for example: "For many immigrants, language remains "a tie that binds" them to their heritage."

What can I say instead of "a tie that binds"?

Depending on the tone you want to achieve, you can use alternatives like "a bond that connects", "a shared link", or "a common thread".

Is it "a tie that binds" or "ties that bind"?

Both are correct. Use "ties that bind" when referring to multiple connections or social obligations, and the singular version for one specific link.

Is "a tie that binds" considered formal?

Yes, it is often found in high-quality journalism and literature. For a more casual context, you might prefer "the glue that holds".