a weak tie

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a weak tie" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used in social science and networking contexts to describe a relationship that is not very strong but can still provide valuable connections or information. Example: "In his research, Granovetter emphasized the importance of a weak tie in accessing new job opportunities."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

A weak tie is a fellow classmate or someone you meet at a party, not a friend or family member.

The New York Times - Style

When a node shares strong ties with two other nodes, the other two nodes should at least have a weak tie.

Cornell University

But as we discussed in class with Granovetter's findings, just in the same way that someone would find a new job from a weak tie, these celebrity followers would be more likely to "fall" for the advertising as a weak tie suggestion.

Cornell University

Of the 141 people who said they thought networking had helped them, only 17% reported that a weak tie did the trick.

Harvard Business Review

Of the people in Granovetter's study who found out about a job opening through word of mouth, 83.4% said they found out through a weak tie.

Harvard Business Review

She also mentions "weak ties", saying these are important because they provide people with new perspectives and opportunities that they might not get from close people; Facebook friend is a perfect example of a weak tie.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Thus, C was able to develop a large weak tie network.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Portfolio entrepreneurs can rely on a wider weak tie network and new venturing is more based on continuous relationships and obligations while serial entrepreneurs can make more radical, riskier choices accepting the inherent uncertainty in the new venture.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

We randomly assigned participants to reflect on a time when they spent money on either a strong social tie or a weak social tie.

Plosone

Having many acquaintances and being a master of the weak tie results in a lot of social power — powerful enough to start word-of-mouth epidemics.

Cornell University

As a consequence, "weak ties" can improve network's robustness against external stimuli.

BMC Medical Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing social networks or professional connections, use "a weak tie" to highlight relationships that provide access to diverse information and opportunities beyond your immediate circle. Acknowledge that these ties, while not as emotionally supportive as strong ties, are crucial for broadening your horizons.

Common error

Avoid dismissing "a weak tie" as insignificant. Recognize that even casual acquaintances can offer unique insights and access to resources that close friends may not provide. Weak ties are valuable for bridging different social and professional circles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a weak tie" functions as a noun phrase, typically referring to a relationship that is not particularly close or strong, but which can still be valuable. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is used in social science and networking contexts. For example, "A weak tie is a fellow classmate or someone you meet at a party, not a friend or family member."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

40%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a weak tie" is a noun phrase referring to a casual or distant relationship that can provide access to diverse information and opportunities. According to Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically correct and usable term, commonly used in social science and networking contexts. While not as emotionally supportive as strong ties, these connections are crucial for expanding one's horizons and bridging different social and professional circles. Remember to avoid confusing weak ties with unimportant relationships, as they offer unique insights beyond your immediate network.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

loose connection

Replaces the term 'tie' with 'connection', emphasizing the lack of strong attachment.

tenuous link

Highlights the fragility and insubstantial nature of the relationship.

distant acquaintance

Focuses on the casual and not very close nature of the relationship.

casual contact

Emphasizes the infrequency and lack of depth in the interaction.

superficial relationship

Highlights the lack of deep emotional or practical investment in the connection.

nodding acquaintance

Implies a minimal level of recognition and interaction.

fleeting association

Stresses the brief and temporary nature of the bond.

peripheral contact

Indicates that the relationship is on the outer edges of one's network.

remote connection

Implies a significant distance, either physical or emotional, in the relationship.

insubstantial bond

Highlights the lack of real substance or commitment in the relationship.

FAQs

How does "a weak tie" differ from a strong one?

While strong ties involve close friends and family offering emotional support and trust, "a weak tie" represents a more distant acquaintance, providing access to new information and diverse perspectives that your close circle may not offer.

Why are "weak ties" important in networking?

They bridge different social and professional circles, offering diverse insights and opportunities beyond one's immediate network. Cultivating "weak ties" expands your reach and access to new information.

What are some examples of "weak ties" in a professional context?

Examples include former colleagues, acquaintances met at conferences, or connections made through social media. These "casual contacts" can provide valuable industry insights and job opportunities.

Can "a weak tie" become a strong tie over time?

Yes, consistent interaction, shared experiences, and mutual support can transform "a loose connection" into a closer, more meaningful relationship. Nurturing these connections can lead to valuable long-term partnerships.