connections

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'connections' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing relationships between two or more people, organizations, or things. For example: "My job requires me to build and maintain professional connections within the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I don't have those interests or those connections.

The Economist

In the letter, Bachmann wondered how Abedin was not disqualified for a US security clearance "given what we know from the international media about Abedin's documented family connections with the extremist Muslim Brotherhood".

The Guardian

Where Yellen falls short, however, is in her connections to any particular cabal.

The Guardian - Opinion

The inquiry had previously heard Sinodinos was brought onto the board because of his Liberal party connections as the company anticipated a switch to a Liberal NSW government in 2011.

The Guardian

Attacks by Boko Haram have disrupted connections further, meaning that there is an absence of an online community able to share news, photos and video reports of news as it unfolds.

The Guardian

I was raised there so there were connections for me in terms of culture, language and landscape.

The Guardian - Film

Despite more than 15 years of controversy over his connections to the "golden circle", Lowry will not be stepping down from the Dáil.

The Guardian

It concerns the relationship between the former Fine Gael TD from Tipperary and a number of leading businessmen in the republic – members of a so-called "golden circle" who made deals and earned millions thanks, in part, to their political connections.

The Guardian

Werritty's connections in Sri Lanka were already extensive.

The Guardian

These conversations are where the connections are made between everyday lives and that distant realm of warring leaders in suits who, this week's manifestos will reveal, are not "all the same" at all.

The Guardian - Opinion

"From Roman penknives to Canalettos, from enamelled reliquaries to model boats, we will be looking for connections, testing history, unearthing startling facts and putting real experts on the spot.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing professional relationships, use "connections" to emphasize the potential for mutual benefit and collaboration.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "connections" directly imply causation. Just because two things are connected doesn't mean one causes the other.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "connections" is as a plural noun. It typically refers to relationships or links between people, things, or ideas. Examples from Ludwig show its use in various contexts, highlighting its role in describing relationships and networks.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "connections" functions as a plural noun denoting relationships, links, or networks. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and versatile across various registers, from formal news reports to informal conversations. It is most frequently found in news and media sources, emphasizing its role in describing real-world relationships. For alternative expressions, consider "relationships", "networks", or "ties" to refine your meaning. A key writing tip is to avoid mistaking correlation for causation when discussing "connections".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

links

Stresses the act of joining or associating.

relationships

Focuses on the nature of the link between individuals or entities.

associations

Suggests a general connection or relationship.

ties

Indicates strong bonds or links.

networks

Emphasizes a structured system of interconnected individuals or groups.

interrelations

Highlights the mutual or reciprocal relationships between entities.

affiliations

Highlights a formal association or alliance.

interdependencies

Underscores the reliance of entities on each other.

contacts

Refers specifically to individuals who can provide assistance or information.

acquaintances

Implies a less formal level of knowing someone.

FAQs

How can I use "connections" in a sentence?

You can use "connections" to refer to relationships between people, organizations, or ideas. For example, "Building strong professional connections is crucial for career advancement."

What can I say instead of "connections"?

You can use alternatives like "relationships", "networks", or "links" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "connections" or "connexions"?

"Connections" is the standard and more widely accepted spelling in modern English. "Connexions" is an older variant.

What is the difference between "connections" and "contacts"?

"Connections" generally refers to a broader network of relationships, while "contacts" typically refers to specific individuals you can reach out to for assistance or information.