closely relative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "closely relative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is very similar or related to another thing, often in a familial or conceptual context. Example: "The two species are closely relative, sharing many genetic traits that highlight their common ancestry."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

This further verifies that the formation of CO is closely relative with Ar–O.

International Journal of Coal Science & Technology

Then, Ghare and Schrader (1963) concluded in their study that the consumption of the deteriorating items was closely relative to a negative exponential function of time.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

The nano-core effect is closely relative to the intrinsic properties of nano fillers, composition and processing of the cementitious composites.

Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing

The number of bulky groups in hindrance-capped π-systems is closely relative to thin film morphology, stability and luminescent features in printing electronics.

Synthetic Metals

In addition, by considering that the glass formation composition of amorphous alloy is closely relative to the eutectic point in corresponding phase diagram, the investigation of glass-forming ability (GFA) in Fe-rich alloys in the Fe B Er liquidus surface has also been implemented in this work.

Journal of Alloys and Compounds

The available genome sequence of sorghum, a closely relative of sugarcane, provides an exceptional opportunity to unravel the complex sugarcane genome.

BMC Genomics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Non-parametric single- and multipoint linkage (NPL) analyses were employed for the HJEB-affected lambs and their closely relatives, which were from three different farms.

Plosone

In contrast, CL34, a relatively new repeat, has been amplified in cultivated potato as well as in its most closely relatives.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

These transcripts have start and stop codons at the same position in the orthologous regions of the closely relatives D. persimilis and D. miranda and the complete ORF of these transcripts is conserved in the three species.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Unlike the scenario seen with its closely-relative V. cholerae, the FadR homologue from the other marine bacterium Shewanella, is quite similar to that of the paradigm organism E. coli.

Protein & Cell

The similar scenario was also seen with V. cholerae N16961, its closely-relative with the same marine origin, in that it carries two genomes (one of which is 2.98 Mb with 47.7% GC contents and encodes 2690 genes, and other one is 1.07 Mb (46.9% GC percentage) corresponding to 1003 genes (Heidelberg et al., 2000).

Protein & Cell

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a relationship, consider whether "closely related" might be a more conventional and widely understood alternative to "closely relative".

Common error

Avoid using "closely relative" when describing relationships that are not based on direct lineage or ancestry. Instead, opt for alternatives like "strongly associated" or "tightly linked" to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "closely relative" functions as an adverb-adjective combination, modifying a noun to indicate a strong degree of similarity or relatedness. Ludwig indicates that it's a correct though not extremely common way to express a close connection. The examples demonstrate usage in scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

80%

News & Media

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "closely relative" is grammatically correct but less common than its close alternative, "closely related". Ludwig AI indicates it accurately conveys a strong connection, especially in formal and scientific contexts. While usable, it's worth considering if alternatives like "intimately connected", "strongly associated", or "tightly linked" are more appropriate for your intended meaning and audience. Primarily found in scientific literature, its effectiveness hinges on clear communication and context-dependent suitability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closely related

Switches from "relative" as an adjective to "related", which is more standard in English for indicating a connection.

tightly linked

Indicates a firm and inseparable connection.

closely tied

Similar to "tightly linked", but slightly less formal.

intimately connected

Emphasizes a deep and significant connection rather than a general relationship.

strongly associated

Highlights the strength of the link or relationship.

highly correlated

Used in statistical contexts to show a strong statistical relationship.

nearly identical

Focuses on the high degree of similarity rather than a familial relation.

strongly resembles

Focuses on similarity in appearance or characteristics.

directly proportional

Applies when the relationship is mathematical or quantifiable, indicating a direct correspondence.

bears a strong resemblance

A more formal way of saying "strongly resembles".

FAQs

What does "closely relative" mean?

"Closely relative" means that two or more things share a strong connection or similarity. In some contexts, it can be used to imply a familial relationship or close association. Consider alternatives like "closely related" or "intimately connected" depending on the context.

Is "closely relative" grammatically correct?

Yes, the phrase "closely relative" is grammatically correct, although the phrasing "closely related" is more common and may be preferred in some contexts.

When should I use "closely relative"?

Use "closely relative" when you want to describe something that is very similar or shares a strong connection with something else. It's particularly suitable when discussing familial relationships, but also works for other kinds of relationships. However, consider if "closely related" better suits your need.

What are some alternatives to saying "closely relative"?

Depending on the specific context, alternatives to "closely relative" could include "intimately connected", "strongly associated", or "tightly linked". The most suitable alternative depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.