Related: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
October 5, 2025

1. Related (adjective): Connected or associated with something else.
2. Related (adjective): Belonging to the same group, family, or type.
3. Related (adjective): Having relevance or pertinence.

The word "related" describes a connection or association between things, people, or ideas, often pointing to a relationship by family, category, or similarity. It is commonly used when grouping items, discussing genetics, or explaining how concepts link together. "Related" can also refer to something being relevant or pertinent in a given context. In science, law, and daily speech, the word helps clarify how items or people are joined or connected. Continue reading to explore the nuances and detailed aspects of "related."

Related Definition: What Does "Related" Mean?

The term "related" carries significant meaning across various fields and contexts. It is used to describe relationships, relevance, or shared characteristics.

Definition of "Related": Connected or associated

In this sense, "related" implies a connection or link between two or more things, often emphasizing their association.

Definition of "Related": Belonging to the same group

This usage highlights the categorization of things or entities within a similar family, group, or type.

Definition of "Related": Relevant or pertinent

"Related" can also indicate relevance, suggesting that something has a bearing on or connection to a specific subject or context.

Parts of Speech

"Related" primarily functions as an adjective, describing the relationship or association between things. Occasionally, it is used in specialized contexts to modify nouns with nuanced meanings.

How to Pronounce "Related"?

The word "related" is pronounced as "rih-LAY-tid." It has three syllables, with the emphasis placed on the second syllable. The first syllable, "rih," sounds like the beginning of the word "rib" but stops before the "b" sound. The second syllable, "LAY," rhymes with the word "day" and carries the main stress of the word. The final syllable, "tid," sounds like the word "tidbit" but without the "bit." When pronouncing "related," ensure that the emphasis is strong on "LAY" while keeping the other syllables soft but clear.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /rɪˈleɪ.tɪd/

Synonyms of "Related": Other Ways to Say "Related"

There are many synonyms for "related," each offering subtle variations in meaning.

  • Connected
  • Associated
  • Linked
  • Relevant
  • Allied
  • Affiliated
  • Analogous
  • Comparable
  • Interconnected
  • Congruent

Antonyms of "Related": Other Ways to Say "Related"

Antonyms of "related" highlight the absence of connection or association.

  • Unconnected
  • Unassociated
  • Irrelevant
  • Separate
  • Independent
  • Dissimilar
  • Distinct
  • Unrelated
  • Inapplicable
  • Alien

Examples of "Related" in a Sentence

Below are examples of how "related" can be used in various contexts.

  1. The two crimes are believed to be related due to their similarities.
  2. The book explores themes related to identity and belonging.
  3. She asked a question related to the lecture topic.
  4. The siblings are closely related through their mother’s side.
  5. His interests are related to science and technology.
  6. The company released a report related to their environmental policies.
  7. The museum exhibit showcases artifacts related to ancient civilizations.
  8. Her experience is directly related to the job requirements.
  9. The documents were filed in a folder related to the project.
  10. They discussed several topics related to the ongoing research.

Frequency of Use

The term "related" is widely used in both spoken and written language. It frequently appears in academic, professional, and casual contexts, often describing associations, connections, and relevance. The prevalence of "related" in literature and everyday speech reflects its importance in expressing relationships and pertinence.

Variants of "Related"

Variants of "related" demonstrate slight differences in form and usage.

  1. Relatable: Something that can be related to or understood in context.
  2. Relation: The act of relating or the way in which two things are connected.
  3. Relational: Pertaining to relationships or connections.

Related Terms to "Related"

Several terms are closely associated with "related" and expand on its meaning.

  1. Connection
  2. Association
  3. Link
  4. Relevance
  5. Affinity
  6. Correlation
  7. Kinship
  8. Dependence
  9. Similarity
  10. Network

Etymology: History and Origins of "Related"

The word "related" originates from the Latin term relatus, meaning "brought back" or "related." It derives from the verb referre, which combines re- (back) and ferre (to carry). Over time, it evolved in Middle English to signify connections and associations.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Related"

Below are derivatives and compounds of "related" that demonstrate its linguistic versatility.

  1. Interrelated: Mutually connected or having a reciprocal relationship.
  2. Relatedness: The quality or state of being related.
  3. Non-related: Not connected or associated.

Common Misspellings of "Related"

Misspellings of "related" often result from typographical errors or confusion with similar words.

  1. Relaited
  2. Releated
  3. Reladed
  4. Reloted
  5. Rilated

10 Idioms Similar to "Related"

The following idioms convey similar meanings to "related" by emphasizing connections or relevance.

  1. Cut from the same cloth
  2. Birds of a feather
  3. In the same boat
  4. Like two peas in a pod
  5. Joined at the hip
  6. Family ties
  7. All in the family
  8. A chip off the old block
  9. Go hand in hand
  10. On the same page

10 Common Questions About "Related"

Here are answers to common questions about the word "related."

1. What does "related" mean?

"Related" means connected, associated, or having relevance to something.

2. Can "related" refer to family connections?

Yes, "related" is often used to describe familial relationships or kinship.

3. Is "related" always an adjective?

Primarily, yes, but it can function differently in specific linguistic contexts.

4. What are some synonyms for "related"?

Synonyms include connected, linked, and associated.

5. What are some antonyms of "related"?

Antonyms include separate, irrelevant, and unconnected.

6. How do you pronounce "related"?

It is pronounced as "rih-LAY-tid."

7. Can "related" describe topics in literature?

Yes, it can describe themes or ideas that are connected in a narrative.

8. What is the origin of "related"?

It originates from the Latin word relatus, meaning "brought back."

9. Is "relatedness" a valid word?

Yes, "relatedness" is a valid derivative of "related."

10. Can "related" be used in technical writing?

Yes, it is often used to describe connections in technical or academic contexts.

Conclusion

The word "related" refers to connections, associations, and relevance between entities. Its versatility allows for diverse applications, from everyday language to academic writing. Consider using "related" in your conversations and writing to convey associations or relevance effectively.

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