In 15 Seconds
- Describes a strong emotional bond between two people or groups.
- Used for friends, family, or even business partners who trust each other.
- Implies frequent contact, deep trust, and mutual support.
Meaning
This phrase describes a deep connection between two people or groups. It means you trust each other, share secrets, and spend a lot of time together.
Key Examples
3 of 6Talking about a sibling
I have a very close relationship with my sister; we talk every day.
I have a very close relationship with my sister; we talk every day.
In a job interview
I maintained a close relationship with my previous clients to ensure their satisfaction.
I maintained a close relationship with my previous clients to ensure their satisfaction.
Texting a friend about a mutual acquaintance
Are you and Mark still having a close relationship, or have you drifted apart?
Are you and Mark still having a close relationship, or have you drifted apart?
Cultural Background
In the US, a 'close relationship' often involves 'quality time' and 'open communication.' People are expected to talk about their feelings to be considered close. Closeness is often shown through 'omotenashi' (hospitality) and 'kuuki wo yomu' (reading the air). You don't always need to speak to have a close relationship. Physical touch and frequent social gatherings are key. A 'close relationship' usually involves the whole family and lots of hugging. Closeness might be expressed through 'banter' (playful teasing). If someone teases you, it often means you have a close relationship.
Use 'with'
Always remember the preposition 'with' when talking about people. 'I am close with him' or 'I have a close relationship with him.'
Pronunciation matters
If you pronounce 'close' with a 'z' sound, people will think you are talking about shutting something!
In 15 Seconds
- Describes a strong emotional bond between two people or groups.
- Used for friends, family, or even business partners who trust each other.
- Implies frequent contact, deep trust, and mutual support.
What It Means
Close relationship is all about proximity and trust. It isn't just about knowing someone. It means you are emotionally connected. You might have this with a best friend. You might have it with a sibling. It implies a bond that is hard to break. Think of it as being 'in sync' with someone else.
How To Use It
You use this phrase to describe the quality of a bond. You can say you 'have' a close relationship. You can also say you 'maintain' one. It works for people, but also for organizations. For example, two companies might work together often. We say they have a close relationship. It is a very flexible phrase. It sounds warm but also quite clear.
When To Use It
Use it when you want to sound sincere. It is perfect for introductions. 'This is Sarah, we have a close relationship.' Use it in job interviews to show teamwork. Use it when talking about your family. It fits perfectly in a heartfelt birthday card. It also works in news reports about allied countries.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for someone you just met. That would be a bit creepy! If you just had one coffee, you aren't 'close' yet. Avoid it if the relationship is strictly professional and cold. If you only talk about spreadsheets, it is just a 'working relationship'. Also, don't confuse it with 'romantic relationship'. While a couple is close, this phrase doesn't always mean love. It can just mean great friends.
Cultural Background
In English-speaking cultures, we value 'personal space'. However, we also prize 'transparency' in friendships. Having a close relationship means you have invited someone into your inner circle. It is a sign of high social status in a way. It shows you are trustworthy. In the US and UK, people often brag about being 'close' to their parents or siblings. It suggests a healthy, happy life.
Common Variations
You might hear people say they are close-knit. This usually describes a whole family or a small town. You might also hear thick as thieves. That is a funny way to say two people are inseparable. If you want to be more casual, just say 'We're really close.' The word relationship makes it sound a bit more grounded and official.
Usage Notes
This is a 'safe' phrase that works in 95% of situations. It is neutral enough for a report but warm enough for a letter to a friend.
Use 'with'
Always remember the preposition 'with' when talking about people. 'I am close with him' or 'I have a close relationship with him.'
Pronunciation matters
If you pronounce 'close' with a 'z' sound, people will think you are talking about shutting something!
Professional use
In business, use 'close relationship' to describe long-term, successful partnerships. It sounds very positive and professional.
Examples
6I have a very close relationship with my sister; we talk every day.
I have a very close relationship with my sister; we talk every day.
Shows high frequency of contact and emotional support.
I maintained a close relationship with my previous clients to ensure their satisfaction.
I maintained a close relationship with my previous clients to ensure their satisfaction.
Demonstrates professional reliability and networking skills.
Are you and Mark still having a close relationship, or have you drifted apart?
Are you and Mark still having a close relationship, or have you drifted apart?
Used to check on the status of a friendship.
My cat and the vacuum cleaner do NOT have a close relationship.
My cat and the vacuum cleaner do NOT have a close relationship.
Using the phrase sarcastically for humor.
The two nations have enjoyed a close relationship for decades.
The two nations have enjoyed a close relationship for decades.
Formal use in a political or historical context.
Professor Smith and I developed a close relationship during my thesis.
Professor Smith and I developed a close relationship during my thesis.
Shows respect and a strong academic bond.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word to complete the collocation.
She has a very ______ relationship with her grandmother.
'Close relationship' is the standard collocation for emotional bonds.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly in a professional context?
Choose the best option:
This correctly describes a strong professional partnership.
Match the verb with the phrase to form common expressions.
Match the following:
These are all common verbs that precede 'close relationship'.
Complete the dialogue naturally.
A: Why do you tell your sister everything? B: Because we have a very _______.
This is the most natural way to describe a bond where you share everything.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Acquaintance vs. Close Relationship
Practice Bank
4 exercisesShe has a very ______ relationship with her grandmother.
'Close relationship' is the standard collocation for emotional bonds.
Choose the best option:
This correctly describes a strong professional partnership.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are all common verbs that precede 'close relationship'.
A: Why do you tell your sister everything? B: Because we have a very _______.
This is the most natural way to describe a bond where you share everything.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo! It is used for friends, family, and even business partners. It just means a strong bond.
Yes, 'we are close' is a shorter, more informal way to say the same thing.
'Intimate' often suggests romance or very private secrets, while 'close' is more general.
Absolutely! Many English speakers use this phrase for their dogs or cats.
Use 'with' for people. 'To' is sometimes used for abstract connections, but 'with' is safer.
You can say 'a distant relationship' or 'we aren't very close.'
Yes, you can say 'Built close relationships with key stakeholders.'
It's similar but usually describes a whole group, like a 'close-knit family.'
Yes, like 'There is a close relationship between the two languages.'
Usually 'a close relationship' when introducing it, and 'the' when referring back to it.
Related Phrases
tight bond
synonymA very strong, unbreakable connection.
inner circle
builds onThe group of people you have the closest relationships with.
see eye to eye
similarTo agree with someone.
thick as thieves
idiomVery close and sharing secrets.
distant relationship
contrastA relationship with little communication or emotional bond.
