Belonging: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when talking about a sense of fitting into a group or place. It implies a personal connection or being part of something.

• She had a strong feeling of belonging at the new school.
• His sense of belonging to the community was evident.

This word is suitable for talking about a direct link or relationship between objects, people, or ideas. It often implies an important or essential relationship.

• All the computer systems are connected to the main server.
• Their families have been connected for generations.

This is used when discussing a formal or casual connection between things, people, or ideas. It can imply a loose or non-essential connection.

• The company is associated with many charitable organizations.
• Certain risks are associated with the project.

Use this when describing a connection by family or lineage, or discussing how two things share common features or origins.

• They discovered they were related through a distant ancestor.
• These two topics are closely related.

This word is often used to express a sense of being part of a group or place, emotionally or socially.

• She felt a strong sense of belonging in her new community.
• The club gave him a feeling of belonging he had never experienced before.

This is used to describe the state of being a member of a group or organization, often involving some form of commitment.

• His gym membership expires next month.
• Membership in the book club comes with several perks.

This word emphasizes the act of including or being included within a group or structure. It often has a positive connotation related to diversity and acceptance.

• The new policies promote greater inclusion of minority groups.
• Her inclusion in the team was seen as a step towards more diversity.

This term is more formal and is used to describe a formal connection or association with an organization or group.

• His affiliation with the university opened many doors for him.
• The company’s affiliation with international networks boosted its credibility.