English can be a tricky language. You interchange one tiny word, and the entire sense of the sentence is altered. Now no one understands what you are saying.
So, to convey your message properly and communicate better, it is kinda crucial to use the correct terms. Even when certain phrases seem similar, in reality, they are not.
And, using a similar phrase in place of the correct one can cause miscommunication. So, you should have a clear idea about the nooks-and-crooks of common phrases.
Out of the many phrases, “Relate to” and “Relate with” are often confused and used interchangeably in sentences.
Ironically, these phrases are not at all related to the same meaning. And, using them in place of each other can affect the overall context of your conversation.
So, which one to use and in which context? Well, no worries, little Shakespeare. I have got your back.
Today, I have brought you a complete guide on the correct usage of the phrases — “Related to” or “Related with”.
From delving into their innate meaning to how to use them, I have covered everything to help you use them in the correct way.
Stay tuned!
Related To Or With: Which One Is Correct?
Grammatically, both the phrases — “Relate to” and “Relate with” — are correct. But using them in the correct context should be emphasized.
Even though both the phrases have a similar tone and sound the same, their meanings are different.
The first one is a phrasal verb while the other is a simple phrase. So, you cannot use them interchangeably in your sentences.
What Are Phrasal Verbs?
Phrasal verbs are an intricate part of the English grammar. They are a combination of verbs and particles, which can be an adverb, a preposition, or both.
Moreover, the combined meaning of the phrasal verb is different from the individual meaning of the words. They are used in place of the verbs in sentences.
So, you need to know the exact meaning of phrasal verbs to use them correctly in the right context.
Key Differences Between “Relate To” And “Relate With”
Here is a brief note on the key differences between “Relate to” and “Relate with” to help you understand them clearly.
| Relate To | Relate With |
|---|---|
| It is a phrasal verb. | Not a phrasal verb. It is a simple phrase. |
| It means to connect or sympathize with something or someone. | The phrase refers to the connection when someone comes in contact with something or someone. |
| Example: If you relate to their feelings, you should tell them. | Example: How will you relate with the group of delinquents? |
How To Use “Relate To” In The Correct Way?
To ensure you are correctly using the phrasal verb — “Relate to” — you need to know its exact meaning and when to use it.
Meaning Of “Relate To”
Instead of looking at the words separately in the phrasal verb “Relate to”, you need to look at the combined phrase. As the combined meaning is different from the individual words.
So, grammatically, it refers to one’s ability to connect, sympathize, interact, and understand the feelings and emotions of others or something.
When To Use?
As a whole, “Relate to” is used in place of a verb in the sentences. So, when you connect or sympathize with someone or the context of something, you can use the phrasal verb.
Basically, you can use it to show that you are resonating with the other person’s behaviour, sympathizing with their emotions, or understanding the context.
So, it is best to use the phrasal verb when there is a resonance or connection between the concept of the conversation and you.
Examples Of “Relate To” In Sentences
Some examples of using the phrasal verb “Relate to” in different sentences.
- I relate to the judge of the show.
- You can relate to her situation because you have similar experiences.
- In case you relate to them, you need to tell them.
- It is impossible for him to relate to her pain.
- You know it is hard to relate to a book that you have never read.
How To Use “Relate With” In The Correct Way?
Although the phrase “Relate with” is not grammatically mentioned as a special phrase, it is widely used in daily English. So, you need to use it in the right context.
Meaning Of “Relate With”
The phrase “Relate with” is commonly used in social interactions to refer to one’s connection with someone else or something.
It is usually used to denote the relationship. So, you can use it to show the connection of something or someone with you that you come in contact with.
When To Use?
Since the phrase “Relate with” refers to the relationship between the subject and the object of the sentence, you can use it to refer to your connection.
When you want to highlight how something or someone’s feelings resonate with you, you can use the phrase. It can be used like a simple verbal phrase.
Examples Of “Relate With” In Sentences
Some examples of using the simple phrase “Relate with” in different sentences.
- Can you relate with their stories?
- If you can relate your emotions with hers, you need to let her know.
- Relating with them for a short time is not wrong.
- I can relate with your views on the people in the city.
- When are you planning to relate with the group again?
Tips To Avoid Common Mistakes In English
Now that you know the exact meanings of the phrases— “Related to” or “Related with”, here are some tips to avoid making mistakes with their usage.
Firstly, understand the context of the conversation. Based on that, you can choose which phrase you want to use.
Secondly, use the correct phrase in the sentence irrespective of the situation. This will help you to convey your message clearly.
Finally, make sure you know the exact meaning of phrasal verbs before you use them in your conversation. Without the right meaning, you might use them wrongly.
Remember, knowing the meaning and context of common phrases can help you to use them correctly. So, keep learning and practicing different types of phrases to become a pro English speaker!
LEARN MORE:
- Of Course Or Ofcourse: Which One Is The Correct Usage?
- All Is Vs All Are: What Are The Key Differences Between Them?
- Better Late Than Never: How To Correctly Use This English Idiom?
