a useful connection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a useful connection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a relationship or link that provides value or benefit in a particular context. Example: "Networking events can help you establish a useful connection with industry professionals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Again, these are public use facilities, and pay phones can be a useful connection in such places.

WikiHow

Those improved relationships can lead to more opportunities down the line if one of those friends becomes a useful connection for work or a romantic partner.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A far higher priority than the off-chance of a useful connection seems to be the increasing urgency of a more efficient, less cluttered way of managing my contacts and communications.

The Guardian - Tech

Hector junior only made his Reading debut in January 2014 but has become an established part of Steve Clarke's side and the former Chelsea player and coach has proven a useful connection for the Premier League champions.

Independent

It distracts from the problems of poverty, corruption and violence by the local security forces; it may also forge a useful connection to an ambitious American military in search of a mission and a reason to carry it out.

The New York Times

However, once we facilitate a meeting, it's up to you to turn the meet-and-greet into a useful connection that will lead to the next step in your career.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

You need to learn how to build networks that deliver more value – and how you can become a more useful connection to others.

The Guardian

It could make a further useful connection with the finer-grained sequential focus of crime scripts.

Crime Science

Rare or sporadic attendance sends a strong signal to the instructor and may deprive students of a potentially very useful connection with their instructor should they encounter unexpected difficulties as the semester progresses.

Princeton University

Establish A Few Useful Connections.

HuffPost

The Irish connection for this Dublin-based retailer was also a useful emotional connection," said Bason.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When networking, focus on establishing genuine rapport, as this is more likely to lead to "a useful connection" than simply collecting business cards. Aim to offer value to others, not just seek it.

Common error

Avoid equating a large number of online connections with genuinely "useful connections". Prioritize building strong relationships with a smaller, carefully curated network over accumulating a vast but shallow list of contacts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a useful connection" functions as a noun phrase that describes a relationship or link that provides some form of advantage or benefit. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a useful connection" denotes a relationship or link that provides benefit or advantage. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various fields like news, academia, and science. To build and maintain these connections, prioritize meaningful engagement and mutual support. Remember that the value of a connection lies not just in its existence, but in its quality and the effort invested in nurturing it. Instead of simply collecting contacts, focus on building strong, mutually beneficial relationships with a curated network.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valuable connection

Replaces "useful" with "valuable", emphasizing the worth or importance of the connection.

a beneficial relationship

Substitutes "connection" with "relationship", highlighting the mutual benefit derived from it.

an advantageous association

Replaces "connection" with "association" and "useful" with "advantageous", focusing on the favorable aspect of the link.

a fruitful link

Uses "fruitful" instead of "useful", suggesting the connection is productive and yields positive results.

a helpful contact

Emphasizes the assistance provided by the connection, framing it as a "contact" instead.

a strategic alliance

Highlights the strategic nature of the connection, implying a deliberate and planned partnership.

a key resource

Frames the connection as an essential "resource", emphasizing its importance and utility.

an instrumental link

Replaces "useful" with "instrumental", stressing the connection's role in achieving a particular outcome.

a practical contact

Focuses on the real-world application and usability of the connection.

a productive interchange

Highlights the reciprocal exchange of information or resources that makes the connection beneficial.

FAQs

How can I make "a useful connection" at a networking event?

Focus on engaging in meaningful conversations and finding common interests. Ask open-ended questions and actively listen to the responses. Follow up after the event to nurture the connection.

What's the difference between "a useful connection" and a casual acquaintance?

"A useful connection" implies a relationship that offers potential benefits or support, while a casual acquaintance is a more superficial, less involved association.

What are some alternatives to "a useful connection"?

You can use alternatives like "a valuable connection", "a beneficial relationship", or "a helpful contact" depending on the context.

How do I maintain "a useful connection" over time?

Stay in touch regularly, share relevant information or resources, and offer assistance when possible. Nurturing the relationship is key to maintaining its value.