has been associating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has been associating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an ongoing action or relationship that started in the past and continues into the present. Example: "She has been associating with various community groups to promote environmental awareness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

MIAMI — Perla Beltrán, a young woman from the wrong side of the tracks in New York, has suffered a great deal lately — her husband, a thief, has been murdered and she has been associating with lowlifes.

The New York Times

There is not a high HIV-infection suspicious in old patients' diagnosis because of: firstly, different epidemiological features associated to age; secondly, the fact that HIV-infection has been associating to younger age.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It has been associated with suicidal thoughts.

Independent

It has been associated with impulsivity, obesity and substance abuse.

The New York Times - Magazine

The chairman, Ben Robinson, has been associated with Albion for 40 years.

The Guardian - Sport

The anterior cingulate gyrus has been associated with empathy.

The Guardian

The band's music has been associated with cars before.

The New York Times

Love, historically, has been associated with a sensation of destiny.

The New York Times

But Ariadne has been associated with Wagner-size voices.

The New York Times - Arts

Ringo Starr has been associated with WaterAid since 2003.

Independent

Obesity has been associated with chronic inflammation.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "has been associating", ensure the context clearly indicates the nature and duration of the association. Specify with whom or what the subject is associating to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "has been associating" without specifying the object of association. This can leave the reader wondering who or what the subject is associating with, thus weakening your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has been associating" functions as a present perfect continuous verb phrase. It indicates an action that started in the past and continues into the present, or has recently finished. Ludwig examples show its use in describing relationships and involvements.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "has been associating" is grammatically correct and used to describe an ongoing connection or relationship that started in the past. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It appears in both news and scientific contexts, with several alternative phrasings available to adjust the nuance and formality. When writing, specifying the object of association and being mindful of potential negative connotations can improve clarity. While grammatically sound, alternatives like ""has been affiliating"" or "has been connecting" might be more appropriate depending on the desired level of formality and the specific nature of the connection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has been affiliating

This alternative implies a formal connection or membership with a group or organization.

has been connecting

This alternative suggests building relationships or establishing links with others.

has been engaging

This alternative emphasizes active participation or involvement in something.

has been collaborating

This alternative highlights working together with others on a common project or goal.

has been mingling

This alternative suggests casually interacting with various individuals in a social setting.

has been consorting

This alternative implies associating with someone, often with disapproval.

has been keeping company

This alternative means spending time with someone, often regularly.

has been fraternizing

This alternative suggests forming friendly relationships, particularly when it is unexpected or inappropriate.

has been linking up

This alternative means connecting or joining with someone or something.

has been hanging around

This alternative implies spending time in a place or with someone without a particular purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "has been associating" in a sentence?

Use "has been associating" to describe an ongoing or repeated connection between a person or entity and something else. For example, "She has been associating with various community groups to promote environmental awareness."

What's a more formal alternative to "has been associating"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "has been affiliating" or "has been collaborating", depending on the context.

Is "has been associating with" different from "is associating with"?

"Has been associating with" implies a duration or repetition of the association, whereas "is associating with" suggests a current or ongoing action without specific emphasis on duration. In this case can be considered similar to "is connecting".

Can "has been associating" have a negative connotation?

Yes, especially when the association is with individuals or groups considered undesirable or disreputable, similar to phrases like "has been consorting with".