had a connection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "had a connection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship or bond between people, ideas, or things that existed in the past. Example: "They had a connection that was evident from the moment they met."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I thought we had a connection.

The New Yorker

I felt like we had a connection.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They had a connection with Faith.

The Guardian - Tech

"I've always had a connection with the land," he says.

University of California, Berkeley

I thought we had a connection, some bond.

The New York Times

These two men must have had a connection from before".

The New York Times

"These were the two I had a connection to".

The New York Times

Each work had a connection with other American music.

The New York Times - Arts

My flight to Panama City had a connection in Miami.

The New York Times

"I felt we had a connection," he said.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It turned out our vice president of sales, Tom MacLeod, had a connection.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a past relationship, consider using "had a connection" to emphasize a sense of understanding, empathy, or shared experience between individuals.

Common error

In formal or scientific writing, avoid overusing the phrase "had a connection". Opt for more precise and descriptive language, such as "demonstrated a correlation" or "shared a historical link", to convey specific relationships between subjects or ideas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "had a connection" functions as a predicate, describing a state of being or a relationship between two or more entities. Ludwig AI's analysis and examples confirm its common usage in expressing past relationships or shared affinities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "had a connection" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a past relationship or bond. Ludwig AI confirms that it is most frequently used in news and media, academic, and scientific contexts. While versatile, more precise language may be preferred in formal writing. Alternatives like ""shared a bond"" or "established rapport" can provide more specific nuances. Understanding its function and communicative purpose helps writers effectively convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shared a bond

Focuses on the emotional or interpersonal link between individuals.

felt an affinity

Emphasizes a sense of natural liking or attraction.

established rapport

Highlights the creation of a harmonious or understanding relationship.

cultivated ties

Suggests a deliberate effort to nurture a relationship.

forged links

Implies a strong and lasting connection was created.

maintained contact

Focuses on the continuation of communication or interaction.

related to each other

Highlights the relational and reciprocal aspect of connection.

were on the same wavelength

Emphasizes a shared understanding or way of thinking.

found common ground

Suggests a shared interest or basis for agreement.

experienced a click

Captures the sudden and immediate sense of connection.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone "had a connection" with another person?

Saying someone "had a connection" with another person means they shared a feeling of understanding, empathy, or a special bond. It suggests a sense of rapport or affinity between them.

How can I use "had a connection" in a sentence?

You can use "had a connection" to describe past relationships or experiences where a bond or understanding existed, for example: "They "shared a bond" that was evident from the moment they met".

What are some alternatives to "had a connection"?

Some alternatives to "had a connection" include ""shared a bond"", "felt an affinity", or "established rapport", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "had a connection" in formal writing?

While "had a connection" is generally acceptable, formal writing often benefits from more precise language. Consider alternatives like "demonstrated a correlation" or "shared a historical link" to convey specific types of relationships.