relation + -ship

Relationship is on the Academic Vocabulary List.

Word parts

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Pronunciation

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  • IPA (key): /rɪˈleɪʃənˌʃɪp/
  • (file)

Singular
relationship

Plural
relationships

  1. (countable) When there is a relationship between things, there is a connection.
    There is a clear relationship between fire and heat.
  2. (countable) When people are connected by family, there is a relationship between them.
    There is a family relationship between Bob Smith and John Smith.
  3. (countable) When people are friends or partners, they have a relationship.
    John is the boyfriend of Joan. They have a relationship.
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