develop a rapport

USAGE SUMMARY

"develop a rapport" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to establish a positive and harmonious relationship with someone. It can be used in various contexts, such as in a professional setting, social setting, or in a personal relationship. Example: "After working together for several months, I was able to develop a rapport with my boss and earn his trust." "I've been trying to develop a rapport with my new neighbor by inviting her over for coffee and getting to know her better." "The first step in effective communication is to develop a rapport with your audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

(S6) It was important to students that their tutors took the time to develop a rapport with them, which has been shown to assist in development of students' autonomy and competence [ 29]. "I like it when they're involved with the group, when they like spending some time to get to know us, that helps.

BMC Medical Education

"What's important is that you develop a rapport, have some empathy for [the defendant or claimant].

The Guardian

He doesn't have time to develop a rapport with the terrorists he captures.

The New York Times

The investigators said an F.B.I. agent and a Maryland detective had begun to develop a rapport with Mr. Muhammad.

The New York Times

He and Bruce develop a rapport that is sometimes as vaudevillian, but also as close, as Hope and Crosby's.

The New Yorker

When a catcher and pitcher develop a rapport, they often have the same instincts about how to pitch to a batter.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

I developed a rapport with them.

The New York Times

They developed a rapport, the veteran and the rookie.

The New York Times - Sports

Since joining Asia in 2006, it is with Japan that the Socceroos have developed a rapport.

The Guardian - Sport

I've developed a rapport with the nurses who call about prescriptions or with questions.

The New York Times

Medications can calm them; developing a rapport with them also helps.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "develop a rapport", actively listen and show genuine interest in the other person's perspective. This fosters a sense of mutual respect and understanding.

Common error

Avoid superficial attempts at building rapport. Authenticity is key; insincere flattery or feigned interest can be counterproductive and damage your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "develop a rapport" functions as a verb phrase indicating the process of establishing a connection with someone. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its usage in various contexts, showing its active nature in building relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

Ludwig AI confirms that "develop a rapport" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase meaning to establish a positive relationship. The phrase appears across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general knowledge sources, indicating its versatility. While suitable for both formal and informal settings, its intentional and effortful nature suggests a slightly more professional tone. When using this phrase, remember that authenticity is key. Alternatives such as "establish a bond" or "foster understanding" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a bond

Emphasizes a stronger, more emotional connection compared to a professional or casual rapport.

cultivate a connection

Focuses on nurturing an existing link, implying a more gradual and deliberate process than simply establishing a rapport.

foster understanding

Highlights the cognitive aspect of building a relationship, focusing on mutual comprehension and empathy.

build trust

Zeroes in on the element of reliability and confidence that is essential for a good rapport, but it isn't a complete semantic match.

form a relationship

A broader term that doesn't necessarily imply a positive or harmonious connection, unlike "develop a rapport".

create chemistry

Suggests an immediate, often intangible connection, which might not be present in every situation where a rapport is developed.

gain someone's confidence

Focuses on one person's feeling towards the other, not necessarily reciprocal, like developing a rapport.

connect with someone

A general term for establishing contact, not necessarily implying a positive or deep relationship.

get on well with someone

An informal idiom indicating a friendly relationship, but doesn't capture the active effort implied by "develop a rapport".

click with someone

Suggests an immediate, effortless connection which is more casual than a carefully built rapport.

FAQs

What does "develop a rapport" mean?

The phrase "develop a rapport" means to establish a friendly, harmonious relationship with someone, characterized by mutual understanding and trust.

How can I "develop a rapport" with someone?

Actively listen, show empathy, find common interests, and engage in open and honest communication. These steps can help "cultivate a connection".

What are some synonyms for "develop a rapport"?

Alternatives include "establish a bond", "foster understanding", or "build trust", depending on the specific context.

Is "develop a rapport" formal or informal language?

The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal settings, making it a versatile choice for various communication scenarios.