cement relations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cement relations" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used in a figurative or metaphorical sense, meaning to strengthen or stabilize an existing relationship between two people, two groups, or two nations. For example, "The signing of the peace treaty cemented relations between the two countries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

The dynasty tried to cement relations with Thebes through political marriages with priestly families.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Privately financed parties, and private parties, are used to cement relations with the administration".

The New York Times

Moreover, their backing has helped to cement relations between southern and northern Sudanese groups opposed to the regime in Khartoum.

The Economist

He toured South American countries hoping to cement relations, but there appears to have been little follow-up.

The New York Times

Republicans have said for years that passing trade pacts with South Korea, Colombia and Panama would increase American exports and cement relations with key allies.

The New York Times

The agreements with Colombia and South Korea would cement relations with key allies and slash tariffs on a range of American agricultural and industrial goods.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Instead, Ms. Rice has said that America needs to re-cement relations with its allies in Europe and Asia.

The New York Times

Local officers cemented relations by taking part in a football match in a team captained by the city's Lord Mayor against a local side, the Mersey Marauders, made up of local gay men and members of the Causer family.

Independent

He added that 'Ndrangheta members living in the north for many generations had gradually acquired a full knowledge of the area by "cementing relations with local communities and prioritising contacts with local politicians and institutions".

Independent

If it would like to cement good relations with its Village neighbors, N.Y.U.

The New York Times

Part of their aim was to cement Greek relations with the emerging democracies of the western Balkans following the Kosovo conflict.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cement relations" when you want to emphasize the act of making relationships more stable and secure, especially after a period of instability or negotiation. This phrase is useful in international relations, business partnerships, and even personal relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "cement relations" to describe the start of a relationship. "Cementing" implies a pre-existing bond that needs strengthening. Instead, use phrases like "establish relations" or "begin a partnership" to describe the initial formation of a relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cement relations" functions as a verb phrase where "cement" acts as a transitive verb, taking "relations" as its direct object. It describes the action of strengthening or solidifying a relationship. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

21%

Science

9%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cement relations" is a correct and usable expression in English, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It signifies the act of strengthening or stabilizing existing relationships, commonly found in contexts like news, encyclopedias, and scientific literature. The phrase is generally neutral to professional in register, implying a level of formality, and is used to emphasize the action of reinforcing existing connections. When using this phrase, remember that it suggests a pre-existing bond that needs strengthening, rather than the initial establishment of a relationship. Alternatives such as "strengthen ties" or "foster connections" can be used depending on the nuances you wish to convey. It's suitable for formal and objective discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

improve relations

General term for making relationships better, without specifying how.

strengthen ties

Focuses on making connections stronger, implying an existing connection.

foster connections

Emphasizes nurturing and promoting growth in relationships.

reinforce bonds

Implies strengthening existing emotional or social connections.

build rapport

Highlights the creation of a harmonious and understanding relationship.

cultivate relationships

Suggests careful and deliberate development of relationships over time.

solidify alliances

Specifically refers to making agreements or partnerships more secure.

enhance cooperation

Focuses on increasing collaboration and joint effort.

forge partnerships

Highlights the creation of new collaborative relationships.

bolster understanding

Emphasizes increasing mutual comprehension and agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "cement relations" in a sentence?

You can use "cement relations" to describe actions taken to strengthen a bond. For example, "The treaty helped "cement relations" between the two countries after years of conflict."

What's a good alternative to "cement relations"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "strengthen ties", "foster connections", or "build rapport" to express the idea of improving relationships.

Is it appropriate to use "cement relations" in formal writing?

Yes, "cement relations" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing international affairs, business partnerships, or any situation where strengthening relationships is a key objective.

What's the difference between "cement relations" and "establish relations"?

"Establish relations" refers to the beginning of a relationship, while ""cement relations"" implies strengthening an existing relationship. You establish something new, but you cement something already in place.