Affairs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ผ
affairs
[ษหfers ]
Definitions
personal relationships
Affairs refer to personal matters or business dealings. It can also refer to a romantic or sexual relationship outside of marriage.
Synonyms
business dealings, liaisons, relationships.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| affairs |
Specifically used to reference secret or romantic relationships outside of marriage. This usage has a negative connotation.
|
| business dealings |
Refers specifically to interactions or transactions in a professional or commercial setting.
|
| relationships |
Commonly used to describe connections between people, whether personal or professional. Neutral connotation.
|
| liaisons |
Used to describe secretive romantic or sexual relationships outside of marriage, can also refer to a person who coordinates communication between groups.
|
Examples of usage
- Her affairs with various business partners were always kept private.
- He had an affair with his secretary, which ultimately led to the end of his marriage.
political
Affairs can also refer to political matters or events, especially those of a controversial or scandalous nature.
Synonyms
diplomatic relations, government affairs, political matters.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| affairs |
The same word as above but indicating a broader and unspecified range of activities or tasks, could be plural and refer to varied aspects within an organization or life.
|
| political matters |
Used to refer to issues related to politics, often involving public policy, political debates, and elections.
|
| government affairs |
Used to describe matters related to the administration and operation of government bodies and their policies.
|
| diplomatic relations |
Used when referring to formal interactions between countries, usually involving ambassadors or diplomacy.
|
Examples of usage
- The government's handling of foreign affairs has been widely criticized.
- The scandal involving the president's affair with a foreign diplomat caused a media frenzy.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Perspectives
- In literature, 'affairs' often symbolize moral dilemmas, illustrating the complexities of human relationships.
- Many cultural norms influence how 'affairs' are viewed, which varies significantly across regions and societies.
- Television dramas frequently use 'affairs' as plot elements, showcasing their emotional intensity and moral conflicts.
Psychology
- Exploring 'affairs' in psychology reveals a lot about human desires and the instinct for connection or adventure.
- Affairs can impact mental health, often leading to feelings of guilt, anxiety, or relief, depending on individual circumstances.
- Research shows that motivations for affairs often include seeking excitement, emotional connection, or dissatisfaction in relationships.
Legal Aspects
- In legal contexts, 'affairs' might relate to matters of property or estate management, particularly in divorce cases.
- Some cultures have legal implications for extramarital affairs, affecting divorce proceedings and social stigma.
- Understanding the legal definitions of 'affairs' can help individuals navigate complex personal and financial situations.
Business
- 'Affairs' in the business world can describe various operations, from managing finances to navigating corporate relations.
- Corporate affairs often involve public relations, highlighting the importance of communication within a business context.
- Strategic affairs can influence a company's direction, often requiring careful planning and management to achieve success.
Origin of 'affairs'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Old French term 'afaire', meaning 'to do or act', highlighting its connection to action.
- The term has evolved in English since the 14th century, initially referring to business or personal situations.
- In modern usage, it commonly refers to romantic relationships but can also mean public or professional concerns.
The word 'affairs' originated from Middle English 'afere' which meant 'what one has to do'. It evolved over time to encompass a wide range of meanings including personal matters, business dealings, and political events. The term gained popularity in the context of romantic relationships outside of marriage in the 18th century. Today, 'affairs' continues to be used in various contexts to describe different types of personal and professional interactions.
See also: affair.