Correlate: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used in scientific or statistical settings to describe a relationship where two or more variables have a mutual connection or pattern. This term does not imply causation, only that a relationship exists.

• Researchers found that sleep quality correlates with overall health.
• The data showed that the increase in temperature correlates with a rise in ice cream sales.

Useful to describe a connection or relationship between ideas, objects, or people where the link is often weaker or more subjective. It can also be used in a social or business context.

• People often associate summer with vacations and beach trips.
• She is closely associated with the company's recent success.

Best used to describe a broader or more general link between two or more things. It can also imply a physical link or an emotional bond.

• A bridge connects the two islands.
• We need to connect the computer to the printer.

Commonly used to describe a direct or specific connection between things. Often used in technological or informational contexts.

• Click the link to access the document.
• The detective found a link between the two crimes.

Used when indicating a mutual relationship or connection between two or more things, especially when one changes as the other does.

• The increase in sales correlates with the new advertising campaign
• Studies show that stress levels correlate closely with work hours

Used when two or more events happen at the same time or when things happen to be in the same place.

• Their vacation plans coincide with our anniversary
• The launch of the new product coincided with a market boom

Used when two or more people share the same opinion or when something is consistent with something else.

• Both parties agree on the terms of the contract
• The findings agree with our previous research

Used when something is equal to or resembles another in terms of appearance, quality, or characteristics.

• The curtains match the sofa perfectly
• Their skills match the job requirements

As 'correlate' was already defined above, this second instance might be an error. However, it can be consistently used in scientific contexts.

• Examining how sleep patterns correlate with cognitive performance

Often used to describe the way two or more people or things are connected, with a focus on the nature or quality of this connection. Common in personal, social, and professional contexts.

• They have a complicated relationship with their parents

Broadly used in everyday language to refer to a link, bond, or relationship between two or more things, people, or concepts.

• There is a deep emotional connection between the two friends

Used to describe a link or connection between two things, but not necessarily implying causation. Common in academic and psychological contexts.

• There is a strong association between smoking and lung cancer