Coupling: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring specifically to mechanical or physical links between two systems or structures.

• We need a stronger coupling between these two gears.
• The coupling between the train cars was faulty.

Broadly used to describe any type of relationship or link between people, ideas, electronic devices, or smaller systems.

• There is a strong connection between exercise and mental health.
• The Wi-Fi connection is very weak in this area.

Commonly used to describe a mechanical system of interconnected parts or the relationship between different ideas or variables.

• The linkage in the machine needs to be replaced.
• There is a direct linkage between economic growth and employment rates.

Typically refers to a point where two parts are joined together, often in engineering or human anatomy.

• The elbow is a hinge joint.
• They fixed the pipe using a new joint.

Appropriate for describing something that is attached or added to an existing device, object, or e-mail.

• Please check the attachment in the email for the report.
• The blender comes with several attachments for different tasks.

Typically used in mechanical or technical contexts to describe the action of connecting two parts together.

• The technician adjusted the coupling to ensure the machine ran smoothly

Often used to describe a strong emotional or chemical attachment. Can be used in personal relationships or scientific contexts.

• The bond between mother and child is unbreakable
• Water is formed by the bonding of hydrogen and oxygen atoms

Commonly used to describe a link or association between people, places, or things. Less intense than 'bond'.

• There is a strong connection between diet and health
• He felt an immediate connection when he met her

Used to talk about the way in which two or more people, things, or groups interact with each other. Can be professional, personal, or romantic.

• Their professional relationship is built on trust and respect
• She is looking for a serious relationship

Often used in the context of an emotional or social bond between people, with a sense of mutual obligation or attachment. Can have a slightly old-fashioned connotation.

• Family ties are very important in their culture
• They have strong ties to their hometown

Used when referring to two things being joined together, often in a mechanical or physical sense. It can also mean a partnership or pairing.

• The engineer repaired the coupling in the machine
• Their professional coupling resulted in several successful projects

Utilized in various contexts, including physical linking, relationships, or networking. It has a broad application, from human connections to internet or electrical connections.

• We need a faster internet connection
• She felt a strong connection with her new friend

Highlights the action or state of linking things together, often used in contexts involving chains or sequences. It can also refer to relationships between ideas or entities.

• The linkage between economic policies and market performance is clear
• They designed a complex mechanical linkage for the prototype

Focuses on systems or networks where multiple connections form a complex web. It's usually associated with technical or electronic systems.

• The interconnection of computers in the office improved efficiency
• The interconnection between these two systems is crucial