substantive relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantive relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to describe a meaningful or significant connection between two entities, such as individuals, organizations, or concepts. Example: "The study revealed a substantive relationship between employee satisfaction and productivity levels."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

"The more substantive relationship we have with Moscow, the more we can defuse the zero-sum thinking about our relations with Russia's neighbors," he said.

The New York Times

In its statement, Chesapeake said it was looking for "potential candidates with no previous substantive relationship with Chesapeake," adding that it would consult with investors.

The New York Times

In making its case for war, the administration dismissed the arguments of experts who noted that despite some contacts between Baghdad and Osama bin Laden's followers over the years, there was no strong evidence of a substantive relationship.

The New York Times

Both Khalid Shaikh Mohammed and Abu Zubaydah, two other high-ranking Qaeda operatives now in American custody, have told interrogators that Al Qaeda had no substantive relationship with the Iraqi government, according to the Senate report.

The New York Times

The nineteenth-century Scottish essayist Thomas Carlyle didn't much like the new industrial order, but he did understand the substantive relationship between human beings and their technologies: "Man is a Tool-using Animal...

The New Yorker

As previously noted, when acquirers reach out to potential sellers to determine their sophistication they may risk violating the prohibition against general solicitation, unless the issuer or its agent has a pre-existing substantive relationship with the offerees.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

By listening deeply, employees build substantive relationships with each other, as well as with customers.

Harvard Business Review

Bashir has also built substantive relationships with powerful regional and international actors such as China and the Gulf States.

The Washington Post

"The vice president has a lot of long and deep relationships in South Carolina, and they're substantive relationships," said Mr. Benjamin, acknowledging Mr. Biden's staff had called him recently.

The New York Times

"We are unaware of any studies or general concerns that would demonstrate a public harm that has a substantive relationships to the breadth of the net this proposal would cast," David H. Martin, director of the Office of Government Ethics, said.

The New York Times

The CEO of a rapidly growing, 300-person professional services firm felt that, to build the business, senior managers needed to develop stronger and more substantive relationships with clients.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantive relationship", ensure that the context clearly indicates the specific area in which the relationship is meaningful. Provide examples or further explanation to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "substantive relationship" to describe minor or insignificant connections. Reserve it for situations where the relationship has a genuine impact or importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantive relationship" functions as a noun phrase, where "substantive" modifies "relationship". It describes a connection that is meaningful, important, and has a considerable degree of impact.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "substantive relationship" is a grammatically correct and meaningful way to describe a connection of real importance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s suitable for various contexts including news, academia, and science, though more frequent in news and media. While alternative phrases like "meaningful connection" or "significant association" exist, "substantive relationship" carries a specific emphasis on the depth and impact of the connection. To use it effectively, ensure the context underscores the genuine significance of the relationship being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meaningful connection

Emphasizes the significance and depth of the connection.

significant association

Highlights the importance and impact of the relationship.

considerable bond

Focuses on the strength and weight of the relationship.

material connection

Underscores the tangible and concrete nature of the relationship.

essential link

Stresses the crucial and indispensable nature of the connection.

important affiliation

Highlights the formal or official nature of the connection.

profound interconnection

Emphasizes the depth and complexity of the relationship.

consequential interrelation

Focuses on the important consequences and mutual effects of the relationship.

deep-seated alliance

Suggests a long-standing and firmly established relationship.

powerful synergy

Emphasizes the positive and mutually reinforcing nature of the relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "substantive relationship" in a sentence?

You can use "substantive relationship" to describe a meaningful connection between two entities, such as "The study revealed a "substantive relationship" between employee satisfaction and productivity levels."

What are some alternatives to "substantive relationship"?

Alternatives include "meaningful connection", "significant association", or "considerable bond", depending on the specific context.

What does "substantive" mean in the context of "substantive relationship"?

In this context, "substantive" means having substance, real importance, or considerable degree. It implies that the relationship is not superficial or trivial.

Is there a difference between "substantive relationship" and "professional relationship"?

Yes, while a "professional relationship" refers to a connection within a work environment, a "substantive relationship" implies a deeper, more meaningful connection that could exist in any context, not just professional ones.