relation

The word “relation” means the way in which two or more things are connected or associated with each other. In plain terms, a connection between things — or, in everyday speech, a family member.

“Relation” is pronounced rih-LAYSHN (/ɹɪˈleɪʃ(ə)n/ in IPA).

Here is “relation” used in a sentence: “There is a clear relation between diet and energy levels.”

Words with a similar meaning to “relation” include member of one's family, association, bearing, concern, pertinence and reference.

The opposite of “relation” — its antonyms — is irrelation.

“Relation” is a noun.

The word “relation” comes from Latin. From Old French relacion, from Latin relatio, "a carrying back," from referre, "to relate" — built from re- ("back") plus ferre ("to carry").

“Relation” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

'Relation' often describes an abstract connection or association between things, as in 'the relation between price and demand.' 'Relationship' more often refers to how people are connected, especially in an ongoing or emotional sense, as in 'a close relationship.'

Both mean a member of your extended family, and they are largely interchangeable. 'Relative' is the more common word in everyday speech, while 'relation' can sound slightly more formal, as in 'a distant relation.'

For dealings between nations, groups, or organisations, the standard word is 'relations,' as in 'diplomatic relations' or 'foreign relations.' 'Relationships' is reserved more for personal or one-to-one connections.