close relations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close relations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong or intimate connection between people, groups, or entities. Example: "Despite the challenges they faced, they maintained close relations throughout the years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Previously close relations with Syrian Pres.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr Abe enjoyed close relations with Green Cross.

The Economist

The need for close relations with Russia is widely understood.

The Economist

At first Bohemia maintained close relations with neighbouring Bavaria.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The monasteries at Nalanda and Vikramashila maintained close relations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And fungi are, strangely, quite close relations of ours.

The New York Times

Broken corporate governance and CSR are close relations.

The Economist

Down with Obama!" Mali has close relations with Libya.

The New York Times

These corporate leaders often have close relations with government officials.

The New York Times

Strictly speaking only close relations can donate a kidney.

The Guardian

Bulgaria has also expressed concern about jeopardizing its historically close relations with Middle Eastern countries.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about international relations or political alliances, use "close relations" to highlight a history of cooperation and mutual support. For example, "The two countries have enjoyed close relations for over a century".

Common error

Be mindful of the context when using "close relations". In some situations, it might unintentionally suggest a level of personal intimacy that isn't accurate or appropriate. Ensure the context clearly supports the intended meaning of strong, positive connections.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close relations" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the state of connection or association between two or more entities. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

27%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "close relations" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe strong connections between people, groups, or entities. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While "close relations" is generally neutral, the specific context can influence its formality. When writing, be mindful of the nuances and potential implications of intimacy, and consider alternatives like "strong ties" or "cordial relationships" to better suit your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong ties

Focuses on the strength and dependability of the connection.

tight bonds

Emphasizes the indissoluble or intimate connections

deep bonds

Emphasizes the emotional and resilient nature of the connection.

intimate connections

Emphasizes the personal and emotional depth of the bond.

close associations

Stresses the communal or collaborative aspect of the relationship.

close links

Implies a practical or functional connection, often for specific purposes.

cordial relationships

Highlights the friendly and pleasant nature of the interactions.

warm rapport

Highlights the mutual understanding and positive feelings between parties.

friendly terms

Suggests a positive and amicable relationship, without necessarily deep involvement.

strong affiliations

Indicates a formal or declared association, often for mutual benefit.

FAQs

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

You can use "close relations" to describe strong connections between people, countries, or organizations. For example, "The company maintains "close relations" with its suppliers".

What are some alternatives to "close relations"?

Alternatives include "strong ties", "intimate connections", or "cordial relationships", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "closest relations" instead of "close relations"?

While "closest relations" is grammatically correct, it implies the highest degree of connection. Use it when you want to emphasize that the relationship is the most intimate or strongest among several others.

What is the difference between "close relations" and "close relationship"?

"Close relations" usually refers to connections between groups or entities, while "close relationship" typically describes a bond between individuals. For example, countries have "close relations", while family members have a "close relationship".