relate to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relate to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing connections, associations, or relevance between two or more subjects. Example: "I can easily relate to her experiences because we have faced similar challenges in our lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I relate to that".

The New York Times

I can relate to that.

The New York Times

"I could relate to them".

The New York Times

"So I relate to Junior.

Independent

Can you relate to Manny?

The Guardian - Film

I can relate to them".

The New York Times - Arts

Characters you can relate to?

The Economist

"I really relate to her".

The New York Times - Sports

"I couldn't relate to it.

The New York Times - Arts

I didn't relate to that.

Independent

Nitkowski can relate to that.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clear communication, ensure the subject you are relating to is explicitly stated. Avoid ambiguity by specifying what or whom you are "relating to".

Common error

While "relate to" is versatile, avoid overuse in informal speech or writing. Opt for more specific synonyms like "understand", "connect with", or "identify with" to convey nuance and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relate to" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, indicating a connection, understanding, or ability to empathize with something or someone. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use and grammatical correctness. It's used to show an association between subjects or experiences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

21%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "relate to" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrasal verb that expresses connection, understanding, or empathy. Ludwig AI validates its wide applicability across various contexts. Its usage spans from formal news articles to informal online forums, signifying a neutral register. To enhance clarity, specify the subject you are relating to and be mindful of overusing it in very informal settings. Consider using synonyms like "connect with", "understand", or "identify with" for nuanced expressions. The phrase is most prevalent in news and media, demonstrating its importance in conveying perspectives and shared experiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

connect with

Focuses on establishing an emotional or personal bond with someone or something.

understand

Emphasizes a cognitive grasp of something, rather than an emotional connection.

empathize with

Highlights the ability to share and understand the feelings of another.

identify with

Suggests a sense of shared characteristics or experiences.

resonate with

Implies that something evokes a feeling of recognition or agreement.

pertain to

Indicates a direct relevance or connection to a specific subject.

apply to

Suggests that something is relevant or applicable in a particular situation.

associate with

Highlights a mental or emotional connection to something else.

have to do with

Indicates a relationship or connection, often in a more general sense.

bear upon

Suggests a direct influence or relevance to a particular issue or decision.

FAQs

How can I use "relate to" in a sentence?

You can use "relate to" to express an understanding or connection with something. For example, "I can "relate to" her struggles because I've been in a similar situation".

What are some alternatives to "relate to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "connect with", "understand", or "identify with".

Is it better to say "I relate to" or "I can relate to"?

Both phrases are correct, but "I can "relate to"" often implies a specific instance of understanding, while "I "relate to"" suggests a general affinity or understanding.

How does "relate to" differ from "refer to"?

"Relate to" implies a connection or understanding, whereas "refer to" means to mention or allude to something.