bond of affection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bond of affection" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a close and emotionally intimate relationship between two people or groups. For example: The mother and daughter shared a strong bond of affection, often sitting up late talking about their day.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Esther has taught Graham to sign, and a bond of affection has grown between them.

The New York Times

Nineteen years of togetherness with a strong bond of affection and understanding will be cherished forever in my life".

Independent

The ways of his aunts and their extended society, with their acknowledged limitations, gave him an unbreakable bond of affection and an inexhaustible resource on which to draw.

The Guardian - Books

Many left the game, but most of them returned to him occasionally, as if there existed a peculiar bond of affection that could not be broken, something unique that they did not find elsewhere".

The New York Times - Arts

Like Laurel and Hardy, Dalziel and Pascoe bounced and sparked off each other and while complete opposites physically, politically and intellectually, there was a clear and present bond of affection and respect, perhaps even love, between them.

The Guardian - Books

Since initially these others are going to be family members or care-givers there will be a pre-conscious bond of affection between them and the child.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Those bonds of affection, that common creed.

The Washington Post

Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection.

The New Yorker

Bonds of affection are renegotiated as instinct or rational calculation sees fit.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Thankfully, Archbishop Rowan is a remarkable and gifted leader who has strengthened the bonds of affection.

The Guardian

They represented the very best of Princeton loyalty, honor, and deep bonds of affection formed on playing fields.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "bond of affection" to emphasize a strong, emotionally positive connection between individuals or even between humans and animals.

Common error

Avoid using "bond of affection" when describing casual acquaintances or superficial relationships. The phrase suggests a deeper emotional connection than a simple friendly association.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bond of affection" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a relationship characterized by strong positive emotions. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a proper phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

19%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bond of affection" describes a strong, positive emotional connection between individuals or even between humans and animals. Ludwig AI analysis indicates it's grammatically correct and commonly found in news and media, scientific publications, and wiki articles. While it's most appropriate for describing deeper emotional connections, avoid using it for casual acquaintances. Abraham Lincoln's famous quote highlights that while bonds can be strained, one should work to avoid breaking them. Alternatives include phrases like "emotional connection", "close relationship", or "loving relationship", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

loving relationship

This alternative directly states love as the primary emotion, which is stronger than affection.

emotional connection

This phrase focuses on the emotional aspect of the relationship, lacking the emphasis on commitment or attachment implied by "bond".

strong attachment

This option emphasizes the emotional tie, possibly lacking the reciprocal feeling of affection.

close relationship

This phrase emphasizes the closeness between individuals but does not necessarily specify affection.

affectionate tie

This phrase focuses on the connection being affectionate, however it does not imply the strength of a bond.

deep fondness

This phrase highlights the feeling of affection but does not indicate a mutual commitment.

mutual fondness

Highlights the shared feeling but not necessarily the commitment or established connection.

shared intimacy

Emphasizes the closeness and private nature of the connection, but not always affectionate.

warm rapport

Indicates a positive and friendly relationship, although does not communicate deep affection.

cordial connection

Suggests politeness and warmth, but lacks the depth of emotional attachment that "affection" implies.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "bond of affection" in a sentence?

The phrase "bond of affection" is used to describe a strong emotional connection. For example, "The shared experience created a strong bond of affection between the teammates."

What's a more intense alternative to "bond of affection"?

If you're looking for a phrase that conveys a stronger emotion, consider using "unbreakable bond" or "deep love", depending on the specific context.

Is "bond of affection" only used for people?

No, "bond of affection" can also describe relationships between humans and animals, as in, "The girl's bond of affection with her dog was evident in their playful interactions."

Can "bonds of affection" be strained or broken?

Yes, like any emotional connection, "bonds of affection" can be strained by conflict or distance. Abraham Lincoln famously said: "Though passion may have strained, it must not break our "bonds of affection"…"