can relate to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can relate to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a feeling of empathy or understanding. For example, "I can relate to your struggle to find the right job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I can relate to that.

The New York Times

I can relate to them".

The New York Times - Arts

Characters you can relate to?

The Economist

Nitkowski can relate to that.

The New York Times - Sports

People can relate to them.

The New Yorker

Soldiers can relate to that".

The New Yorker

I can relate to it all".

The New York Times - Sports

They can relate to an iPod.

The New York Times

I can relate to that feeling.

The New Yorker

Well, I can relate to that.

The New Yorker

I can relate to the retributive impulse.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can relate to" to build rapport with your audience by showing that you understand their experiences or feelings. This is particularly useful in persuasive writing or when giving advice.

Common error

While "can relate to" is a useful phrase, avoid overusing it, as this can make your writing sound repetitive. Use synonyms like "understand", "empathize with", or "identify with" to add variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can relate to" functions as a verb phrase expressing the ability to understand or empathize with someone or something. It is used to show a connection or shared experience. This aligns with Ludwig's finding that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can relate to" is a common and versatile expression used to convey empathy, understanding, or shared experiences. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in a wide range of contexts. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication, although it appears most frequently in news and media. To avoid overuse, consider alternatives such as "understand", "empathize with", or "identify with". By using "can relate to" effectively, you can build rapport with your audience and create a stronger connection. As Ludwig shows, there are over 60 examples of its use across various platforms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Identify with

This alternative highlights a sense of connection and shared identity.

Empathize with

This alternative focuses specifically on feeling the emotions of another person.

Put oneself in someone's shoes

This option focuses on imagining and understanding another person's experience from their viewpoint.

Have compassion for

This alternative emphasizes a deep awareness of another's suffering coupled with a desire to alleviate it.

Appreciate

This alternative highlights recognition and understanding of a situation or feeling, often based on prior similar experience.

Understand

This alternative emphasizes a cognitive grasp of the situation or feelings, omitting the element of shared experience.

Share common ground with

This alternative stresses shared interests, experiences, or opinions that create a basis for understanding.

Feel sympathy for

This option leans more towards pity or concern for someone's misfortune.

Be on the same wavelength as

This alternative implies an intuitive understanding and harmonious connection.

See eye to eye with

This alternative emphasizes agreement and shared perspective on a matter.

FAQs

How can I use "can relate to" in a sentence?

You can use "can relate to" to express that you understand or share someone else's feelings or experiences. For example, "I "can relate to" the challenges of learning a new language because I've been there myself."

What are some alternatives to "can relate to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "understand", "empathize with", "identify with", or "appreciate".

Is it better to say "I can relate to that" or "I understand that"?

Both phrases are correct, but "I "can relate to" that" implies a shared experience or feeling, while "I understand that" simply means you comprehend the situation.

What does it mean to say someone is relatable?

When someone is described as relatable, it means they have qualities and experiences that others "can relate to", making them easy to connect with and understand.