an associate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an associate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a colleague, partner, or someone who is connected to a particular organization or group in a professional context. Example: "As an associate at the firm, she is responsible for managing client accounts and assisting senior partners."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

and an "associate" for $100.

The New Yorker

He was an associate dean.

The New York Times

He treated Mr Bulger as an "associate".

The Economist

She deserves confirmation as an associate justice.

The New York Times

Earl Dowson is an associate director.

The New Yorker

Just then an associate passed her by.

The New York Times

"Get the money," he commanded an associate.

The New Yorker

I was only an associate.

The New York Times

9 05 Grills an associate.

The New York Times - Magazine

(He's already an associate minister).

The New Yorker

Steamy," said Mary Beth Bray, an associate culinary producer.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an associate", ensure the context clearly defines the nature of the relationship. Specify the area of association (e.g., "an associate professor", "an associate editor") for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "an associate" when a more specific term (e.g., "colleague", "partner", "affiliate") would provide a clearer understanding of the relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an associate" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. Ludwig examples show it describing roles such as "an associate professor", "an associate editor", or simply a person connected to someone or something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

39%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Health & Justice

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an associate" functions as a noun phrase used to identify a relationship or affiliation, frequently in professional settings. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. While versatile, it's best used with specific context. When choosing alternatives, consider the nuance you want to convey, such as "colleague" for peers or "partner" for closer relationships. Its frequency, per Ludwig, is very common across news, science, and general media, making it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a colleague

Replaces "associate" with a more general term for someone working in the same profession or organization.

a partner

Implies a closer, often formal, relationship within a business or other organization.

a collaborator

Focuses on working together on a project or task.

a fellow worker

Emphasizes the collaborative aspect of the relationship.

an assistant

Emphasizes a supporting role within a professional context.

an affiliate

Suggests a formal connection or association with an organization.

a peer

Indicates someone at a similar level or status.

a subordinate

Suggests a hierarchical relationship where one person reports to another.

an acquaintance

Describes a casual or less formal relationship.

a contact

Highlights the connection as a source of information or assistance.

FAQs

How can I use "an associate" in a sentence?

You can use "an associate" to refer to a colleague, partner, or someone connected to a particular organization. For example: "He is "an associate professor" at the university" or "She is "an associate editor" for the journal".

What's the difference between "an associate" and "a colleague"?

While both terms refer to people you work with, "a colleague" generally implies a peer relationship, whereas "an associate" can describe someone in a broader range of relationships, including subordinates or partners.

What can I say instead of "an associate"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a colleague", "a partner", "an affiliate", or "a fellow worker".

Is it appropriate to use "an associate" in formal writing?

Yes, "an associate" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when specifying a professional relationship. However, ensure that it accurately reflects the nature of the association you're describing. For example, you may use a more specific title such as "an associate dean".