Association
/əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsA connection, link, or relationship between two or more things.
/əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/
A connection or relationship between things.
There's a clear association between smoking and lung cancer.
💡 Simply: Things that go together.
More Examples
The association of ideas is a key concept in psychology.
How It's Used
"The study explored the association between stress and illness."
"There's a strong association between poverty and crime."
A group of people with a shared purpose or interest.
/əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/
An organization of people with a common interest.
He's a member of the professional association for writers.
💡 Simply: A club or group.
More Examples
The homeowners' association manages the community's facilities.
How It's Used
"The trade association represents small businesses."
"She joined a local volunteer association."
Idioms & expressions
by association
Because of a connection or relationship with someone or something else.
"He was implicated by association with known criminals."
From Middle French association, from Latin associatio, from associare "to associate", from ad- "to" + sociare "to join", from socius "companion".
The word 'association' has been used in similar ways for centuries, highlighting connections between ideas and people.
Memory tip
Think of 'associating' ideas together.