Relation vs Relationship
What’s the difference between them?
Relation
Meaning:
formal kind of the state of being connected or related.
Examples:
1. There is a promising relation between these companies.
2. My boss and I had a strained relation.
3. I didn't know we had any relation.
Relationship
Meaning:
more close and informal state of being related or connected.
Examples:
1. I want to have a healthy relationship with my family.
2. She and her partner have a strong relationship.
3. My relationship with my best friend has grown over the years.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Relation
1. Connection
2. Association
3. Link
4. Correlation
5. Interdependence
1. Antagonism
2. Isolation
3. Strife
4. Disconnection
5. Estrangement
Relationship
1. Connection
2. Link
3. Bond
4. Affinity
5. Interaction
1. Strife
2. Disagreement
3. Tension
4. Animosity
5. Separation
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Relation", "Relationship".
1. Think of 'relationship' as having the word 'ship' at the end. Just as ships travel deep into the waters, 'relationships' often refer to deeper, more intimate connections between people, like friendships, familial ties, or romantic partnerships.
2. On the other hand, 'relation' sounds more formal and can be used in a broader context, such as a diplomatic relation between countries.
3. The word 'relationship' is longer and sounds more complex than 'relation.' This can help you remember that relationships usually refer to more complex, multifaceted connections and interactions between individuals.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
'Relation' should be used in formal contexts to describe a connection or association between things or people, often emphasizing a more distant or abstract connection. For example, 'There is a relation between economic policies and social stability.'
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
'Relationship' is used in more informal contexts to describe a close and personal connection between individuals, emphasizing the emotional or social bond. For instance, 'Their romantic relationship grew stronger over time.'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, 'relation' and 'relationship' have different pronunciations. 'Relation' is typically pronounced as /rɪˈleɪʃən/, while 'relationship' is pronounced as /rɪˈleɪʃənˌʃɪp/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake is using 'relation' when referring to personal or emotional connections, which is better suited for 'relationship.' Conversely, using 'relationship' in formal or abstract contexts can be a mistake. It's important to choose the word that matches the level of formality and the nature of the connection being discussed.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. My ___________ with my brother is strong.
2. My ___________ with my teacher is professional.
3. Our ___________ is based on mutual respect.
4. Im looking for a ___________ thats built on trust.
5. Our ___________ is very different from theirs.
6. This ___________ has been in my family for generations.
1. My relationship with my brother is strong.
Explanation: Relationship is the appropriate word choice here because a relationship is defined as a close connection between two or more people which is exactly the situation between the speaker and their brother.
2. My relation with my teacher is professional.
Explanation: Relation is the correct word choice here because a relation is defined as a particular way in which two or more people or things are connected, which is applicable to the speaker and their teachers professional relationship.
3. Our relation is based on mutual respect.
Explanation: Relation is the correct word choice here because a relation is defined as a particular way in which two or more people or things are connected, which is applicable to the speaker and their teachers relationship which is based on mutual respect.
4. Im looking for a relationship thats built on trust.
Explanation: Relationship is the appropriate word choice here because a relationship is defined as a close connection between two or more people which is what the speaker is aiming to find in the context of trust.
5. Our relationship is very different from theirs.
Explanation: Relationship is the appropriate word choice here because a relationship is defined as a close connection between two or more people which is the situation the speaker is referring to when discussing the differences between their relationship and someone elses.
6. This relationship has been in my family for generations.
Explanation: Relationship is the correct word choice here because a relationship is defined as a particular way in which two or more people or things are connected, which is applicable to the speakers family relationship which has been present for multiple generations.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.