relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

'relationship' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It can be used to refer to the connection that someone has with another person, group, or entity. Example sentence: My relationship with my brother has grown stronger over the years.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

The Guardian

The New York Times

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Too often in the past our rhetoric undermined that positive relationship with business, and with the creation of jobs and wealth for the future.

The Guardian

"There is... a total lack of clarity as to how a government would proceed to unravel a relationship that has developed in complexity over more than 40 years.

The Guardian

Nasdaq's rules state broadly that independent directors cannot have a relationship that "would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director".

The New York Times

"The relationship between an athlete and a coach can only be based on unflinching trust.

The Guardian - Sport

Leigh and Minghella were nominated for best screenplay, with Leigh an early favourite for his story about the comically strained relationship between Gilbert and Sullivan.

The Guardian - Film

"What is the point of having that strong relationship if you can't use it to move them to a position which is in their interests and our interests?" she said.

The Guardian

The relationship made it uncomfortable for the US and EU to speak out about human rights abuses in Uzbekistan.

The Guardian

In the second day of hearings on Tuesday, the judges described the two-year-old law as fundamentally changing the relationship between the individual and the government, giving Congress virtually unlimited power to force people to buy products for their own good.

The Guardian

We have a far more direct and visceral relationship with it," he says.

The Guardian

It's a documentary, ostensibly, but it's also a genre-defying film about memory and fiction and their strange, liquid relationship with the truth.

The Guardian - Film

It would be far-fetched to describe the US and Britain's long-term relationship with Saudi Arabia as a love affair, although elements of romance, blind infatuation and lustful mutual gratification have never been entirely absent.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "relationship", be specific about the type of connection you're describing (e.g., working relationship, personal relationship, professional relationship) for clarity.

Common error

Don't assume that understanding a general "relationship" implies knowledge of its specific dynamics; always provide context to avoid misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The word "relationship" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a connection or association between two or more entities. This can range from interpersonal bonds to logical connections, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "relationship" is a versatile noun referring to a connection or association. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. It is most frequently encountered in news and media, and finds application in formal business and scientific contexts as well. Related phrases include "interpersonal connection" and "established rapport". When using "relationship", specify the type of connection for clarity and avoid broad generalizations. Understanding these nuances will ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Interpersonal connection

Emphasizes the direct link and interaction between individuals.

Working dynamics

Specifically refers to how individuals interact in a professional setting.

Established rapport

Highlights the presence of mutual understanding and trust.

Affinity

Denotes a natural liking or sympathy for someone or something.

Association

Refers to a general connection or link.

Linkage

Focuses on the act or manner of linking things together.

Interrelation

Emphasizes the mutual or reciprocal relation or connection.

Bond

Highlights a strong connection that unites people.

Attachment

Implies a feeling of affection or fondness.

Communication

Focuses on the act of conveying meanings and exchanging information.

FAQs

How can I use "relationship" in a sentence?

You can use "relationship" to describe connections between people, things, or ideas. For example, "The company aims to build a strong relationship with its customers."

What's a more formal way to say "relationship"?

In a formal context, you could use "association", "connection", or "linkage" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

What can I say instead of "relationship" in a romantic context?

In a romantic context, consider using "partnership", "companionship", or "romance" to describe the "relationship".

How does "relationship" differ from "friendship"?

"Relationship" is a broad term for any connection, while "friendship" specifically denotes a bond of mutual affection and trust. Not all relationships are friendships, but all friendships are relationships.