French word

relation

Pronunciation

IPA/ʁəlasjɔ̃/

Meaning

  • feminine nounrelationship

Example

Nous avons une bonne relation.

We have a good relationship.

Illustration for relation (relationship)

More examples

Ils ont une relation de confiance depuis longtemps.

They have had a relationship of trust for a long time.

Core concept

A bond that can describe both personal closeness and a practical link at work.

Common phrases

  • relation de confiance

    relationship of trust

  • relation étroite

    close relationship

  • relation de travail

    working relationship

Similar words

lien: A connection joining people or things.
rapport: A relationship between two or more people or matters.
contact: A personal connection maintained through meetings or communication.
connaissance: A person who has been met or is known.

Definition in French

Lien personnel, affectif ou professionnel entre des personnes, couvrant l'amitié, la famille ou les relations de travail.

Word origin

French inherited relation from Old French relation, itself from Latin relatio, and broadened the earlier sense of reporting to include social and professional ties.

Usage tips

  • In avoir des relations, the plural can mean useful contacts or connections, especially in professional or political contexts.

Other meanings

  • connectionnoun

Opposites

Related words

  • relationnelrelationaladjective
  • interrelationinterrelationshipnoun

Word lists with this word