Relatable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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relatable

[rɪˈleɪtəbəl ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

description of something easy to empathize with

Relatable is used to describe something that is easy to empathize with, something that many people can understand or connect with. It often refers to situations, emotions, or experiences that are common and familiar to a wide range of people.

Synonyms

accessible, empathetic, familiar, understandable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
relatable	Use this word when describing something that people can easily identify with because it reflects their own experiences or feelings. Her stories are so relatable; they remind me of my own childhood. The characters in the movie are very relatable, making it easy for the audience to connect with them.
understandable	This word can be used when something is easy to comprehend or when someone’s feelings or reactions are reasonable. Her reaction to the news was completely understandable. The instructions were clear and understandable.
empathetic	This word should be used when referring to someone who is able to understand and share the feelings of another person. She is such an empathetic listener; she really understands what I'm going through. An empathetic teacher can greatly improve the classroom environment.
familiar	This word is best for describing something that is well-known or easily recognized because it has been experienced before. The smell of the cookies was very familiar to me. I'm very familiar with this part of town.
accessible	This word is suitable for describing something that is easy to reach, use, or understand, especially for a wider audience. The museum should be more accessible to people with disabilities. The language in the book is very accessible, making it perfect for beginners.

Examples of usage

It's so relatable when a character in a movie has a messy room just like mine.
Her struggles with self-confidence are so relatable to many young women.
The comedian's jokes about everyday life are so relatable to the audience.
The show's depiction of family dynamics is incredibly relatable to viewers.
I find the protagonist's journey in the novel very relatable.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Humans are naturally inclined to form connections with others, making relatable experiences a core part of social interaction.
Identifying with others' feelings or situations can enhance emotional wellbeing and empathy.
Relatable content in media can help individuals feel less isolated, fostering a sense of belonging.

Pop Culture

Many popular movies and TV shows aim to create relatable characters to resonate with audiences, often leading to larger followings.
Social media influencers often share relatable posts to engage with followers, bridging the gap between their lives and those of their fans.
Relatable memes have become a staple on the internet, showcasing everyday humorous situations that many people experience.

Literature

Authors often create relatable characters to draw readers in, allowing them to see parts of themselves reflected in the story.
Young adult literature frequently focuses on relatable themes, such as friendship, identity, and love, making it accessible for younger readers.
Literature that explores universal human experiences tends to be labeled relatable, appealing to a wide range of readers.

Education

Teachers often use relatable examples to explain complex concepts, helping students grasp difficult subjects more easily.
Incorporating relatable scenarios in lessons can increase student engagement and participation.
Studies show that when students see themselves in the curriculum, their motivation and achievement levels can significantly improve.

Origin of 'relatable'

Main points about word origin

The term comes from the verb 'relate,' which means to tell or connect something.
It became popular in English during the 20th century, especially in discussions around media and personal experiences.
The suffix '-able' indicates that something can be done, so 'relatable' means it can be related to.

The word 'relatable' emerged in the late 20th century as a way to describe content or experiences that resonate with a broad audience. With the rise of social media and digital communication, the concept of relatability has become increasingly important in connecting with others. The term emphasizes the shared human experiences that unite us, highlighting the power of empathy and common ground.