associate with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "associate with" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a verb meaning to spend time with someone or to become closely connected with someone or something. For example, "I associate with many people in the fashion industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Did I associate with Olivia?

The New York Times

"No one wants to associate with failure".

The New Yorker

They also like to associate with winners.

The Economist

What do you associate with Cheshire?

Independent

They associate with it.

The Guardian - Opinion

You can't associate with them,' " she said.

The New Yorker

"I only associate with a few people.

The New York Times - Magazine

Spaniards who associate with immigrants here agree.

The New York Times

What does one immediately associate with Sudan?

The Guardian - Opinion

So yes, Malaysians online tend to associate with those they would otherwise associate with offline.

The Economist

In Section 3, we associate with Prob.

Boundary Value Problems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "associate with", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to social connections, professional affiliations, or conceptual links.

Common error

Avoid using "associate with" when a more specific term like "collaborate", "connect", or "relate" would provide a clearer and more accurate description of the relationship.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "associate with" is as a phrasal verb. It typically functions as a transitive verb, requiring an object. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe the action of connecting or linking oneself with someone or something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "associate with" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to describe connections, affiliations, or relationships. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase appears across diverse contexts, ranging from News & Media to Science and Wiki sources. While generally neutral in register, formality can vary depending on the context. When using "associate with", consider the specific nuance you intend to convey and opt for alternatives when a more precise term would better serve your purpose. Avoiding overgeneralization will enhance clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

connect with

Focuses on establishing a connection, emphasizing linkage rather than ongoing association.

relate to

Emphasizes a connection or relevance, often in a more abstract or conceptual sense.

mingle with

Highlights casual interaction within a group, suggesting a less formal connection.

consort with

Implies a potentially disapproved or questionable association.

affiliate with

Suggests a formal or official connection, often within an organization.

collaborate with

Focuses on working together towards a common goal, adding a cooperative element.

unite with

Emphasizes joining forces or forming a unified entity.

have dealings with

Highlights commercial or transactional interactions rather than personal association.

hang out with

Signifies a casual and informal way to spend time with someone.

get involved with

Emphasizes participation or engagement in an activity or group.

FAQs

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

You can use "associate with" to describe connecting with people, ideas, or organizations. For example, "I like to associate with people who are kind and supportive", or "Many people "associate with" good luck the color green".

What are some alternatives to "associate with"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "connect with", "relate to", "mingle with", or "affiliate with".

Is it better to say "associate with" or "associate oneself with"?

"Associate with" is more concise and commonly used. "Associate oneself with" is grammatically correct, but it can sound more formal or even stilted in many contexts.

What does it mean to "associate with" a particular brand?

To "associate with" a brand means that people link certain qualities, values, or experiences with that brand. For example, people might "associate with" innovation, quality, or luxury.