close relative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close relative" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone who is a direct blood relative (such as a parent, sibling, aunt, uncle, etc.) or to someone who is related by marriage (such as a cousin, step-parent, step-sibling, etc.). For example: "My close relative, my uncle, recently had a birthday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She is his sole surviving close relative.

The Guardian

Ruth, a close relative and dear friend.

The New York Times

"They're with a close relative, holding hands.

The Guardian - Film

Often, it depends on just whether they're a close relative.

The Guardian

Their first interview was with a close relative of White's.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I went there on my motorcycle," said a close relative.

The New York Times

The cowslip's close relative, the primrose, was much the same.

The Guardian

"It is not even a close relative of Neptune.

The Guardian

These can be grown just like their close relative, citrus.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The honeybee is a close relative of existing wild bees.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(Disclosure: a close relative of Mr Schwarzenberg edits Eastern Approaches).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal or official matters, specify the type of "close relative" if the specific relationship is relevant (e.g., "spouse", "child", "parent").

Common error

While "close relative" is generally acceptable, avoid using it in extremely formal documents like legal affidavits or academic papers without further specification. Consider using more precise terms such as "direct ancestor", "lineal descendant", or specifying the exact relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close relative" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It identifies an individual with a significant familial connection. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Lifestyle

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close relative" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that indicates a significant familial connection. According to Ludwig AI, its usability in written English is confirmed. Its neutral register allows it to be used across various contexts, though more formal situations might require specifying the precise relationship. While alternatives like "immediate family member" or "near relation" exist, "close relative" strikes a balance between formality and general understanding. When writing, be mindful of the specific relationship's relevance and the formality of the context to ensure the most appropriate term is used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closely related person

A more verbose but equally valid alternative.

immediate family member

Emphasizes the directness and legal significance of the family tie.

near relation

Similar in meaning, but less commonly used than "close relative".

intimate kin

Highlights the emotional closeness and familiarity between relatives.

blood relation

Highlights the genetic connection between individuals.

immediate kindred

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of saying "close relative".

direct descendant

Specifies a lineage connection, focusing on ancestry rather than general closeness.

next of kin

Legal term for the closest living relatives, often used in inheritance contexts.

close family

Focuses on the family unit as a whole, implying strong bonds and frequent interaction.

nuclear family member

Refers to parents and children living in the same household.

FAQs

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

You can use "close relative" to describe a familial connection, as in "My "close relative", my aunt, is visiting this weekend" or "In case of emergency, notify my "close relative" listed as the emergency contact".

What's a more formal alternative to "close relative"?

For more formal contexts, consider using "immediate family member" or specify the exact relationship (e.g., "mother", "sibling", "spouse").

What does "close relative" legally imply?

Legally, "close relative" can imply different rights and responsibilities depending on the context, such as inheritance, medical decision-making, or immigration. The exact definition may vary by jurisdiction.

Is there a difference between "near relative" and "close relative"?

While similar, "close relative" often implies a stronger emotional or practical connection compared to "near relative", which can simply indicate a genealogical connection.