Affiliation: meaning, definitions and examples

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affiliation

 

[ əˌfɪliˈeɪʃən ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

in organizations

The state or process of affiliating or being affiliated with an organization. Affiliation can refer to the act of formally joining an organization or the connection or relationship between two organizations. It is often used to describe a partnership or alliance between different entities.

Synonyms

association, connection, partnership.

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Word Description / Examples
affiliation

This word is commonly used in formal or official settings to describe a relationship with an organization or group. It suggests membership or attachment to an entity.

  • 1
  • She proudly displayed her affiliation with the university
  • 2
  • His political affiliation was unknown, causing much speculation
association

This term is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts to describe a link or relationship between people, organizations, or concepts. It often implies a loose or voluntary connection.

  • 1
  • There is a strong association between diet and health
  • 2
  • He attended the annual meeting of the neighborhood association
connection

This term is often used in everyday language to describe any type of relationship or link between people, things, or concepts. It is generally less formal and more personal.

  • 1
  • We feel a special connection after working together on the project
  • 2
  • Our company has a connection with several top suppliers
partnership

This word is used to describe a formal and often business-related relationship where two or more parties agree to cooperate to advance mutual interests.

  • 1
  • They entered into a strategic partnership to develop new technology
  • 2
  • Our school has a partnership with local businesses to provide internships

Examples of usage

  • His affiliation with the company helped him land the job.
  • The university's affiliation with various research institutions strengthens its academic reputation.
Context #2 | Noun

in academia

The official connection or relationship between an academic institution and another organization, typically a university and a college. Affiliation can also refer to the status of being formally associated with a specific academic institution, such as being an affiliate faculty member.

Synonyms

connection, partnership, relationship.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
affiliation

Used when specifying a formal association or membership with a group or organization, often in professional or academic settings.

  • She proudly announced her affiliation with the prestigious university.
  • His affiliation with the political party has influenced his career significantly.
connection

Commonly used when talking about personal relationships or networking ties, both casual and professional.

  • I have a strong connection with my college professor.
  • Their business connection helped them to expand the company.
relationship

Used to describe a broader range of interactions between individuals or entities, including personal, professional, or emotional connections.

  • She has a close relationship with her mentor.
  • Their professional relationship turned into a strong friendship.
partnership

Specifically relates to a formal business arrangement or collaboration where two or more parties work together toward a common goal.

  • The two companies entered into a partnership to develop new technology.
  • Their partnership resulted in a successful product launch.

Examples of usage

  • Her affiliation with the prestigious university opened up many research opportunities.
  • The college's affiliation with the university allows students to transfer credits easily.
Context #3 | Verb

general

To officially attach or connect oneself to an organization or group. It involves the act of joining or becoming associated with a particular entity. Affiliation can also mean to identify with or support a cause or belief.

Synonyms

align, associate, join.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
affiliation

Used when indicating a formal connection or membership to an organization, society, or group.

  • Her affiliation with the professional association helped her career
  • The university boasts multiple international affiliations
associate

Used when describing a casual or professional connection with someone or something. It can also imply guilt by association, which has a negative connotation.

  • He is closely associated with the tech industry
  • She didn't want to associate herself with that controversial project
join

Typically denotes the act of becoming a part of a group, activity, or organization. It's a more general and common term for starting participation or membership.

  • He decided to join the local community club
  • After graduation, she joined the marketing team at a major firm
align

Describes bringing actions, beliefs, or systems into harmony or agreement, often used in a strategic or organizational context.

  • The company's new policies align with its long-term vision
  • Her personal values align with the mission of the nonprofit organization

Examples of usage

  • She decided to affiliate herself with the local charity organization.
  • The club welcomes new members who wish to affiliate with their mission.

Translations

Translations of the word "affiliation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 afiliado

🇮🇳 संबद्धता

🇩🇪 Zugehörigkeit

🇮🇩 afiliasi

🇺🇦 афіліація

🇵🇱 afiliacja

🇯🇵 提携

🇫🇷 affiliation

🇪🇸 afiliación

🇹🇷 bağlılık

🇰🇷 제휴

🇸🇦 انتماء

🇨🇿 příslušnost

🇸🇰 príslušnosť

🇨🇳 隶属

🇸🇮 pripadnost

🇮🇸 aðild

🇰🇿 қатыстылық

🇬🇪 თანამშრომლობა

🇦🇿 üzvlük

🇲🇽 afiliación

Etymology

The word 'affiliation' has its roots in the Latin word 'affiliare', which means 'to adopt as a son' or 'to bring into a close relationship'. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the idea of formal connections and partnerships between individuals or organizations. The concept of affiliation plays a crucial role in various fields, including business, academia, and social groups, where establishing connections and alliances is essential for growth and collaboration.

See also: affiliate, unaffiliated.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,883 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.