relatives

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "relatives" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to family members. For example, "We had a large family gathering with all of our relatives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Plus it provides the perfect excuse to run away from your relatives.

The Guardian

Relatives, friends and teachers of 16 German schoolchildren who were returning from an exchange in Spain when the plane crashed are also present.

The Guardian

About 500 relatives of victims are attending the ecumenical service, with hundreds more watching on large screens outside the cathedral and in a neighbouring church.

The Guardian

Relatives of the murdered women wept in the crowded public gallery.

The Guardian

When I visited the Jordanian border with Syria I met young children who witnessed the killing of their relatives, who had walked for weeks to escape the violence, and who face all the uncertainties and difficulties of life as a refugee.

The Guardian

Any information from the outside world comes from the newspapers and magazines that her relatives bring her during visits.

The Guardian - Music

Relatives say the availability of mattresses is one of the main advantages of St Raphael's.

The Guardian

He said many donors had seen relatives or friends die through drug addiction.

The Guardian

Families who have been processed and released to join relatives while they wait for their court hearings still arrive in droves at the Sacred Heart Catholic church hall in downtown McAllen clutching A4 manilla envelopes containing official notices about their cases.

The Guardian

Take the latest figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders showing the proportion of first-time buyers purchasing property without any financial help from relatives or friends.

The Guardian - Business

Relatives, visitors and staff can use them to spark conversation and memories.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about sensitive topics such as accidents or disasters, be mindful and respectful when mentioning "relatives" of those affected. Focus on providing factual information and avoid sensationalizing their experiences.

Common error

Avoid using "relatives" when you mean "relativism", which refers to the concept that truth and morality are relative to individuals or cultures, and is unrelated to family members.

Linguistic Context

The word "relatives" functions primarily as a plural noun, referring to people connected by blood, marriage, or adoption. It is used to denote a group of family members. Ludwig AI confirms the word's grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "relatives" is a grammatically sound and frequently used plural noun referring to family members. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct term to use across many contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, the term maintains a neutral register. When using "relatives", remember that it requires a plural verb and be mindful of the context, especially when discussing sensitive topics. Also, avoid confusion with "relativism", a completely different concept. Explore synonyms like "family members" or "kin" for variety in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

family members

Broader term encompassing all individuals considered part of a family unit.

kin

Formal and concise term for blood relations.

relations

A more general term referring to those connected by blood or marriage.

blood relations

Specifically emphasizes the genetic connection between individuals.

next of kin

Legal term referring to the closest blood relatives.

close family

Highlights the immediate and intimate members of one's family.

extended family

Refers to relatives beyond the immediate nuclear family.

immediate family

Focuses on the closest and most direct familial connections.

family connections

Emphasizes the bonds and relationships within a family.

ancestors and descendants

Covers relatives from past generations and future generations.

FAQs

How do I use "relatives" in a sentence?

"Relatives" is a plural noun, so it requires a plural verb. For example, "My "relatives" are visiting for the holidays".

What is a more formal synonym for "relatives"?

A more formal synonym for "relatives" is "kin", which is often used in legal or official contexts.

Is it correct to say "relative's" when referring to multiple relatives?

No, when referring to something belonging to multiple relatives, use "relatives'", which is the plural possessive form. For example, "We visited our "relatives'" house".

What is the difference between "relatives" and "family members"?

"Family members" is a broader term that can include individuals related by marriage or adoption, whereas "relatives" typically refers to those related by blood or marriage.