B2 Collocation Neutral 5 min read

close connection

Strong link or association

In 15 Seconds

  • Strong, deep link between people or things.
  • Implies significant influence or shared experience.
  • Use for genuine bonds, not superficial ties.
  • More than just being similar; it's about impact.

Meaning

This phrase means that two things or people are linked very strongly, almost like they're tied together. It's more than just knowing each other; it implies a deep understanding, shared experience, or significant influence between them. Think of it as a bond that's hard to break.

Key Examples

3 of 11
1

Texting a friend about family

My sister and I have a really `close connection`; we always know what the other is thinking.

My sister and I have a really `close connection`; we always know what the other is thinking.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>
2

Job interview follow-up email

I believe my background in project management creates a `close connection` with the requirements of this role.

I believe my background in project management creates a `close connection` with the requirements of this role.

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3

Instagram caption for a travel photo with a friend

So grateful for this adventure buddy! We've built such a `close connection` over the years.

So grateful for this adventure buddy! We've built such a `close connection` over the years.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>
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Cultural Background

The concept of 'connection' has evolved significantly with globalization and digital communication. Historically, strong links were primarily geographical or familial. Phrases like `close connection` gained prominence as societies became more mobile, and people sought ways to describe deep bonds formed across distances or through shared interests rather than just proximity. It reflects a modern emphasis on emotional and psychological links, valuing shared experiences and understanding.

🎯

Think 'Impact'

When deciding if a link is `close`, ask: Does one significantly influence the other? If yes, it's likely a `close connection`.

⚠️

Avoid Overstating!

Using `close connection` for casual acquaintances sounds overly familiar or even a bit strange. Stick to genuine, deep links to avoid awkwardness.

In 15 Seconds

  • Strong, deep link between people or things.
  • Implies significant influence or shared experience.
  • Use for genuine bonds, not superficial ties.
  • More than just being similar; it's about impact.

What It Means

This phrase describes a strong, deep, or direct link between two things or people. It means they are tightly linked and influence each other significantly. It's not just a casual acquaintance; it's a real bond. It carries a sense of intimacy, shared history, or mutual dependence. You feel this connection; it's palpable.

How To Use It

Use close connection when you want to emphasize a powerful link. It works for relationships, families, or even abstract ideas. Think about how much they impact each other. Is it a fleeting moment or a lasting bond? This phrase highlights the latter. It’s perfect for describing why two people get along so well, or why two events are undeniably related. You might use it when discussing your best friend, a mentor, or even how your job impacts your personal life.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine you're watching a documentary about sibling rivalry. The narrator might say, "Despite their fights, the twins shared a close connection." Or maybe you're chatting with a friend about your favorite author. You could say, "I feel a close connection to her writing; it's like she's reading my mind." It's used in personal stories and professional analyses alike. Even in business, two companies with a close connection might share resources or collaborate closely.

When To Use It

This phrase is great for describing deep personal relationships. Think family members, lifelong friends, or romantic partners. It's also useful for professional ties, like a mentor and mentee. You can even use it for abstract concepts. For instance, "There's a close connection between diet and mood." Use it when the link is significant and affects behavior or outcomes. It adds weight to your description of the relationship.

When NOT To Use It

Avoid close connection for superficial or temporary links. If you just met someone at a party, you don't have a close connection. Calling a colleague you barely know a close connection would sound odd. It’s also too strong for simple proximity. Just because two houses are next door doesn't mean they have a close connection. Stick to situations where the bond is genuinely deep and meaningful. Don't overstate the obvious!

Common Mistakes

Learners often use close connection for very casual acquaintances. They might say, "I have a close connection with my neighbor." This sounds a bit too intense for most neighborly relationships. Another mistake is using it for things that are just *similar*. "My car is blue, and the sky is blue, so they have a close connection" – nope! That's just a shared color. Remember, it’s about a *deep* link.

My neighbor and I have a close connection. My neighbor and I are friendly. / My neighbor and I get along well.
My phone and my laptop have a close connection because they're both black. My phone and my laptop are both black. / My phone and my laptop are compatible.

Similar Expressions

  • strong bond: Very similar, often used for relationships. Think "a strong bond between mother and child."
  • deep relationship: Emphasizes emotional depth. "They have a deep relationship built on trust."
  • tight-knit: Usually describes groups, like families or communities. "They're a tight-knit group of friends."
  • intimate connection: Suggests a very personal or romantic link. "They shared an intimate connection from the start."
  • strong ties: Often used for family or national connections. "She has strong ties to her hometown."

Common Variations

  • close ties: Similar to close connection, often used for family or professional links. "They have close ties to the university."
  • close relationship: Almost interchangeable, but connection can sometimes feel slightly less personal than relationship.
  • a connection: Simply means a link, but without close, it's much weaker. "There's a connection between the two events."

Memory Trick

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Imagine two magnets with their positive poles facing each other. They push apart, right? Now imagine the negative and positive poles. They *stick* together, powerfully! That's a close connection – a powerful attraction or link that keeps things together. Think of the strong pull between those opposite poles; it’s a close connection!

Quick FAQ

  • Q: Is close connection always about people?

A: Not at all! It can describe links between ideas, events, or even abstract concepts like health and happiness.

  • Q: Can I use it for my pet?

A: Absolutely! If you have a really strong bond with your pet, you definitely have a close connection.

  • Q: Does it imply romantic feelings?

A: Not necessarily. While it *can* be used for romantic partners, it's also perfect for family, friends, or even professional relationships where there's deep trust and understanding.

Usage Notes

This phrase is quite versatile and generally safe to use in most contexts. However, avoid using it for extremely casual or superficial relationships, as it implies a deeper level of significance. In highly formal academic or legal writing, phrases like 'significant correlation' or 'strong association' might be preferred.

🎯

Think 'Impact'

When deciding if a link is `close`, ask: Does one significantly influence the other? If yes, it's likely a `close connection`.

⚠️

Avoid Overstating!

Using `close connection` for casual acquaintances sounds overly familiar or even a bit strange. Stick to genuine, deep links to avoid awkwardness.

💡

It's Not Just People!

Remember, `close connection` can link ideas, events, or even abstract concepts. Don't limit it to just human relationships.

💬

Modern Bonds

In today's world, `close connection` often highlights emotional resonance and shared values, not just physical proximity or shared history.

Examples

11
#1 Texting a friend about family
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

My sister and I have a really `close connection`; we always know what the other is thinking.

My sister and I have a really `close connection`; we always know what the other is thinking.

Highlights a deep, intuitive understanding between siblings.

#2 Job interview follow-up email
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

I believe my background in project management creates a `close connection` with the requirements of this role.

I believe my background in project management creates a `close connection` with the requirements of this role.

Professional context, linking skills to job needs.

#3 Instagram caption for a travel photo with a friend
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

So grateful for this adventure buddy! We've built such a `close connection` over the years.

So grateful for this adventure buddy! We've built such a `close connection` over the years.

Social media, emphasizing a long-standing friendship.

#4 Discussing a documentary

The film really showed the `close connection` between the artist and their inspiration.

The film really showed the `close connection` between the artist and their inspiration.

Abstract link between a creator and their muse.

#5 Explaining why two historical events are linked
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

Historians note the `close connection` between the economic policies of the 1920s and the subsequent crash.

Historians note the `close connection` between the economic policies of the 1920s and the subsequent crash.

Formal, academic tone linking cause and effect.

#6 Humorous observation about pets
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

My dog and the mailman have a `close connection`... mostly involving barking.

My dog and the mailman have a `close connection`... mostly involving barking.

Lighthearted, ironic use of the phrase.

#7 Emotional reflection on a friendship
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>

Even though we live far apart now, our `close connection` remains unbroken.

Even though we live far apart now, our `close connection` remains unbroken.

Emphasizes emotional depth despite physical distance.

Mistake: Describing a casual acquaintance Common Mistake
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

✗ I have a `close connection` with the barista at my usual coffee shop.

✗ I have a `close connection` with the barista at my usual coffee shop.

Too strong for a regular customer-service interaction.

Mistake: Using for simple similarity Common Mistake
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

✗ My red shirt and that fire truck have a `close connection`.

✗ My red shirt and that fire truck have a `close connection`.

This implies a deeper link than just sharing a color.

#10 Modern context: WhatsApp message
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

OMG, this new song has such a `close connection` to my current mood. Need to add it to my playlist!

OMG, this new song has such a `close connection` to my current mood. Need to add it to my playlist!

Relating music emotionally to personal feelings.

#11 Online dating profile

Looking for someone with whom I can build a `close connection` based on shared values and laughter.

Looking for someone with whom I can build a `close connection` based on shared values and laughter.

Expressing a desire for a deep, meaningful relationship.

Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: close connection

The context suggests a strong bond formed over time, making `close connection` the most suitable choice.

Choose the sentence that uses `close connection` correctly.

Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: The old friends shared a `close connection`, reminiscing about their shared childhood adventures.

Option B correctly describes a deep bond between people based on shared history. Options A, C, and D use the phrase incorrectly for superficial similarities or simple presence.

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

The standard idiom is `close connection` to express a strong link. `Near connection` is not a common or natural phrasing in English.

Fill in the blank.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: close connection

In a therapeutic context, building a strong, trusting relationship is key, making `close connection` the most appropriate term.

🎉 Score: /4

Visual Learning Aids

Formality Spectrum of 'Close Connection'

Very Informal

Used casually among friends, maybe with slang.

OMG, we have such a `close connection`!

Neutral

Standard usage in most everyday conversations and writing.

They share a `close connection` through their mutual hobby.

Formal

Used in professional or academic contexts, but less common than 'strong ties' or 'significant link'.

The report highlighted the `close connection` between the two datasets.

Very Formal

Rarely used in highly formal settings; prefers more specific terms.

The treaty established a `close connection` between the nations.

Where You'll Find 'Close Connection'

Close Connection
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Family reunion

Grandma always said we had a `close connection`.

🛋️

Therapy session

Building a `close connection` is vital for trust.

💖

Friendship anniversary post

10 years and still a `close connection`!

🔬

Academic paper

The study revealed a `close connection` between variables.

💼

Job interview

I see a `close connection` between my skills and this role.

🎵

Discussing a favorite artist

I feel a `close connection` to their music.

Comparing 'Close Connection' with Similar Phrases

Close Connection
Core meaning Strong, deep link, often emotional or influential.
Usage Relationships, abstract links, professional ties.
Vibe Genuine, significant, often intimate.
Strong Ties
Core meaning Significant links, often based on shared background or loyalty.
Usage Family, national identity, long-term professional networks.
Vibe Enduring, reliable, often duty-bound.
Tight-Knit
Core meaning A group that is closely united and supportive.
Usage Families, small communities, close friend groups.
Vibe Cohesive, supportive, exclusive.

Contexts for 'Close Connection'

❤️

Personal Relationships

  • Family bonds
  • Deep friendships
  • Romantic partners
💼

Professional Life

  • Mentor-mentee
  • Team collaboration
  • Client relationships
💡

Abstract Links

  • Ideas and concepts
  • Events and outcomes
  • Art and inspiration
💪

Health & Well-being

  • Diet and mood
  • Exercise and stress
  • Mind-body link

Practice Bank

4 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase. Fill Blank beginner

The two scientists developed a ______ ______ after years of working together on the project.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: close connection

The context suggests a strong bond formed over time, making `close connection` the most suitable choice.

Choose the sentence that uses `close connection` correctly. Choose intermediate

Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: The old friends shared a `close connection`, reminiscing about their shared childhood adventures.

Option B correctly describes a deep bond between people based on shared history. Options A, C, and D use the phrase incorrectly for superficial similarities or simple presence.

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix intermediate

Find and fix the mistake:

My new colleague and I have a very near connection.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: My new colleague and I have a very close connection.

The standard idiom is `close connection` to express a strong link. `Near connection` is not a common or natural phrasing in English.

Fill in the blank. Fill Blank advanced

The therapist aimed to foster a ______ ______ with her patient to facilitate healing.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: close connection

In a therapeutic context, building a strong, trusting relationship is key, making `close connection` the most appropriate term.

🎉 Score: /4

Frequently Asked Questions

20 questions

It means there's a strong, deep link between two people or things. It suggests they influence each other significantly, share common ground, or have a bond that feels substantial and meaningful. Think of it as more than just knowing each other; it implies a real impact or shared understanding.

Absolutely! You can talk about a close connection between historical events, scientific concepts, or even between a piece of art and the viewer's emotions. For example, 'There's a close connection between childhood nutrition and adult health.'

It can be both! Often, it carries an emotional weight, especially when describing relationships between people. However, it's also used logically to describe strong causal links or correlations, like in scientific research or historical analysis.

Use it when you want to emphasize a strong bond. Talk about family members, best friends, or even a deep understanding with a colleague. It's also great for linking abstract ideas, like how 'a close connection exists between regular exercise and mental well-being.'

Yes, you can, but be mindful of the context. It works well to describe strong professional relationships, like between a mentor and mentee, or to link your skills to a job requirement. For instance, 'My experience shows a close connection to the needs of this role.'

It fits perfectly! You might text a friend, 'We have such a close connection, even online!' Or you could comment on a video, 'This music has a close connection to my feelings right now.' It's very natural for modern communication.

It's generally considered neutral, making it versatile. You can use it in casual chats with friends or in more formal writing like essays or professional emails. Its meaning remains clear across different registers, though very formal settings might prefer 'strong ties' or 'significant link'.

Yes, similar phrases include strong bond, deep relationship, strong ties, and intimate connection. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey – strong bond often implies emotional depth, while strong ties can suggest loyalty or shared background.

Close connection often emphasizes a deep, perhaps emotional or influential, link between two entities. Strong ties usually implies a more enduring or binding relationship, often based on shared history, family, or loyalty, like 'strong ties to one's homeland.'

Close connection can apply to pairs or even abstract links, whereas tight-knit specifically describes a group (like a family or community) that is closely united and supportive of each other.

A common mistake is using it for very superficial or temporary links, like saying you have a close connection with someone you just met. Another error is using it for simple similarity, such as 'My car is blue, and the sky is blue, so they have a close connection.' It implies more than just sharing a feature.

Saying 'I have a close connection with my favorite brand' might sound a bit odd unless you're an ambassador or have a unique story. It’s better suited for personal relationships or significant influences, not just brand loyalty.

Not necessarily a long history, but it does imply depth and significance. You could develop a close connection with someone relatively quickly if you share intense experiences or deep emotional understanding.

While the phrase itself is neutral, the context can imply negativity. For example, 'There's a close connection between the politician and the corrupt lobbyist' suggests an unhealthy or illicit relationship.

Close connection can be slightly broader, encompassing links between non-people or abstract concepts. 'Strong relationship' usually implies a more personal or interactive bond, typically between individuals.

The word connection itself signifies a link or relationship. Adding close intensifies this, specifying that the link isn't weak or distant, but rather strong, significant, and perhaps even intimate or influential.

Yes, the emphasis on deep, often emotional, connections reflects modern Western values that prioritize individual relationships and psychological bonds. In some cultures, emphasis might be more on familial duty or community roles than personal 'connection'.

Definitely. You might talk about the close connection between your phone and its charger, or the close connection between different software components in a computer system. It signifies a vital link for function.

A link is simply a connection, which can be weak or strong. Close connection specifically denotes a *strong* and often meaningful link, implying a deeper relationship or influence than a simple link might suggest.

Try describing your relationships with friends and family using the phrase. Also, look for connections in news articles or documentaries – like the link between lifestyle choices and health – and practice explaining them with close connection.

Related Phrases

🔄

strong bond

synonym

A very powerful feeling of connection or loyalty between people.

Both phrases describe a powerful link, but 'strong bond' often emphasizes emotional depth and loyalty more explicitly.

🔗

strong ties

related topic

Significant connections, often based on family, history, or shared interests.

While similar, 'strong ties' often refers to more enduring or societal connections, like family or national links, compared to the personal feel of 'close connection'.

👔

intimate relationship

formal version

A very close, personal, and often romantic relationship.

'Intimate relationship' is a more specific and often more formal term, usually implying romantic or deeply personal closeness that 'close connection' might encompass more broadly.

↔️

acquaintance

antonym

Someone you know slightly but are not close to.

This is the opposite of a `close connection`, representing a superficial or minimal level of knowing someone.

🔗

link

related topic

A connection or relationship between two or more things.

'Link' is a more general term; `close connection` specifies the *strength* and often the *nature* (deep, influential) of that link.

🔗

tight-knit

related topic

Describes a group (family, community) that is closely united.

While `close connection` can apply to individuals or abstract links, `tight-knit` specifically describes the cohesive nature of a group.

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